THE Chinese New Year of the Rooster will be celebrated with events throughout Durham.

To drive away bad luck and bring a fresh start, the traditional Chinese Lion will dance its way through the city centre scattering lucky lettuce leaves on Saturday, January 28.

The Mayor of Durham, Cllr Edward Bell, will face the Lion and catch the first lucky lettuce to ensure a good year ahead for Durham, at about 12.30pm.

Following this, the procession will move to the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, Elvet Bridge , and Framwelgate Bridge, with a final performance in Walkergate. Before the arrival of the Lion, there will be a martial arts demonstration in the Market Place from noon. This and the Lion Dance will be performed by Oceans Apart Kung Fu Club.

Colin Wilkes, managing director of Durham Markets and organiser of the city’s Chinese New Year celebrations, said: “You won’t be able to miss the Lion Dance. It’s a noisy event, accompanied as it is by drums and cymbals as it makes its way through the city.

“It’s an annual event which is enjoyed by all, particularly the children.”

Arts and crafts sessions will be held in Clayport Library from 10am to 4pm with a £1 charge per child.