Celebrations to herald the Chinese New Year will feature lion dancers, music and art throughout Maidstone town centre on Saturday.

At noon, the Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Clive English, will perform the "dotting of the eyes" ceremony to awaken the Chinese lion at the bandstand in Fremlin Walk. The lion will then prowl the streets.

Between noon and 4pm, Jubilee Square will come alive with themed activities, including music and dancing on stage, plus a calligrapher and face painter.

At 3.30pm, artist Graham Clarke will also be judging a painting competition for local schoolchildren, and announcing the winners.

The events have been funded and promoted by the Maidstone Town Team, with the council.

The day will be rounded off with a Chinese lion performance at kalaRED in Bank Street, followed by a New Year banquet for diners.