MUSIC, singing, and the aroma of Nepalese curries filled the air in the Punjabi Community Centre in Gorse Hill last week as dozens of people enjoyed the Gurung Society of Swindon's New Year festival.

Around 300 Gurkhas and guests in cultural dresses, suits and hats visited the brightly-decorated centre at 2pm on December 30 and tucked into a delicious buffet while watching performances, speeches and presentations from entertainers and Gurung Society of Swindon members, then danced the night away.

They also lit candles at an altar to ask for forgiveness for past transgressions and receive blessings from the Buddha for the year ahead.

Younger members enjoyed a small exhibit near the stage and altar which displayed the tools the Gurkhas' ancestors used in Nepalese villages long ago.

The Tamu Lhosar celebrations for the Gurung caste of Gurkhas mark the beginning of their calendar year - 2018 is the year of the dog.

Yam Tamu, chairman of Gurung Society of Swindon, was excited about the celebrations.

He said: "We have had this festival in Swindon since 2006, which is when ex-Gurkhas were allowed to settle in the UK.

"It's not always possible for us to meet in one place but everyone comes together for this so it is a very special occasion.

"My role is to bring more Gurungs into the society and celebrate the history and culture of our ancestors."

JB Gurung, treasurer and former chairman of the society, explained the significance of the event.

He said: "We want to keep our culture alive and we want to keep that going to the next generations so that they follow in our footsteps.

"This event shows people who we are so we can work together with them, integrate into the wider community and offer each other support.

"Society can only continue if other cultures help and respect each other."