Inverness Lunar New Year celebrations will be broadcast on Chinese television

Over 100 people came out to celebrate the year of the dragon in Inverness.

Chinese New Year celebrations took place earlier than normal in Inverness this year, due to the presence of a television crew who are filming how people in Scotland mark the occasion. This will then be broadcast on China Central Television (CCTV).

This year marks the year of the dragon - which symbolises good fortune, strength and good luck.

The Scottish Highlands & Islands and Moray Chinese Association (SHIMCA) pulled out all the stops as it usually does, showcasing the 'lion dance' in Crown Primary, Kimmylies and Hilton in the morning of February 6.

In the evening people gathered to watch the lion dance at the bottom of Market Brae steps. This was then followed by a parade of the dance along the High Street which culminated at the Town House.

Invited guests were then taken into the Town House, where they were serenaded by folk Andy Chung. Depute provost Jackie Hendry welcomed Danna Hou Deputy Consul General in Edinburgh with a gift of Highland hospitality.

Children from the mandarin class then performed several songs of celebration followed by piano recitals. Glasgow Hong Lok Dragon & Lion Dancing Troupe ended the ceremony with a captivating, colourful dance.

Guests enjoyed a feast of buffet food and a cake to welcome in the Lunar New Year.

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