Parades, dances and shows celebrate the Chinese New Year

Hundreds of people gathered to watch parades and Kung Fu demonstrations by the UK Shaolin Temple at Gunwharf Quays shopping centre.

Mum-of-three Natasha Kryemadhi brought her children along to the festivities on Saturday.

The 31-year-old said: ‘It is nice place to come over half-term and it was a good show.

‘It is nice to support other cultures and is something different for families.’

Gunwharf Quays has run the event for the past couple of years.

General Manager Colin Wilding said: ‘We are passionate about bringing our community together and keen to support the large Chinese community in Portsmouth.

‘The spectacular Chinese New Year celebration, with its vibrant mix of music, dance and Kung Fu, gave us the perfect opportunity to give local people a glimpse into this fascinating culture.

‘It was a real delight to work so closely with the UK Shaolin Temple again and put on this extra special event for our guests and the City.’

The group from the UK Shaolin Temple performed in traditional dragon costumes with live drumming.

Senior instructor of the group, Martin Niven, said: ‘I think its a really great opportunity to celebrate the Chinese culture and it was great to see lots of families getting involved.’

On Sunday the Portsmouth Guildhall hosted the Portsmouth Chinese Association’s annual New Year celebrations.

Food and art workshops were held in the morning and the afternoon extravaganza featured performances from local dance groups, singers and a pianist.

Chairman Albert Choi said: ‘We have done this for many, many years and it is a celebration of Chinese culture.

‘Over 800 people have come along this year and that is a mix of Chinese people and others which is really great.’