Lion dance parades down High Street for Chinese New Year

The Home Secretary and Mayor of Windsor and Maidenhead were among the crowd as Chinese New Year was marked with a traditional lion dance down Maidenhead High Street.

The celebration on Saturday was organised by the Chinese and Oriental Community Association.

Chairman Anita Li said she was pleased with the turnout in the ninth consecutive year that Chinese New Year has been formally celebrated in the town.

Festivities began at 11am with traditional lantern making in the Nicholsons Centre, followed at 1pm by a parade down the High Street.

The World Eagle Claw Kung Fu School from Portlock Road led the procession with a lion dance.

Anita explained that the dance is designed to 'chase evil spirits away' and that it is often performed to bring good luck to businesses.

She added: "It's a symbol of growth and prosperity."

In a break from last year there was no reception held after the parade.

Anita said that this was because Home Secretary and Maidenhead MP Theresa May and the mayor, Cllr Andrew Jenner, both had busy schedules.

The Chinese community is instead planning a get together to be held around Easter.