CELEBRATIONS for Chinese New Year are guaranteed to go with a bang thanks to a £15,000 donation.
The Northern Rock Foundation has donated the money for the Chinese New Festival in Newcastle, which will be held this weekend.
The money will also safeguard the future of the event for the next two years.
Festival co-ordinator Sow Fong Cole said: "The Chinese Festivity Group is very grateful for this wonderful donation.
"It has injected financial security for the future and has lifted the spirits of those who are involved.
"The Chinese New Festival is not only the most important festival in the Chinese community here and elsewhere, but it also has a major role in contributing to the culture diversity of Newcastle."
Leo Finn, chairman of the Northern Rock Foundation said: "This is now one of the highlights of the city's festival calendar and an important focus for Chinese people throughout the region."
In Chinese tradition, each year is linked to an animal, and 2004 is the year of the monkey.
To mark the New Year, a series of open air events have been organised in Newcastle on Sunday by the Chinese Festivity Group.
Events include lion and unicorn dances, a programme of traditional performances, a Chinese market featuring arts and crafts, Chinese health products and New Year food and drink.
For details, contact 0191-273 3264, or visit www.chinesefestival.co.uk
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