VISITORS to a Swindon community centre welcomed in the Chinese New Year with a special event.

Dozens of residents attended the event at the Freshbrook Community Centre in Swindon organised by the Swindon Chinese Women's Society.

Guests tried a range of Oriental fare, as well as Chinese calligraphy and mahjong, while the kids enjoyed a bouncy castle and face painting.

Mei Willoughby, chairwoman of the society said the aim was to open the celebrations to the rest of the community.

"Officially Chinese New Year was a week ago but it is usually a private affair at home with close family.

"But really we are thousands of miles away from family, so we decided to come together like a big family and celebrate this way."

Former Hong Kong journalist-turned teacher Bill Wong, from Pinehurst, kept youngsters happy by showing them calligraphy.

He said: "Many of the symbols are very similar to what the words actually mean but it can take many years to learn the skill, and that's why people are still fascinated by it.

"I think it's wonderful, though, that everyone has been able to come together and welcome in the Year of the Dog."

Chinese New Year was celebrated on January 29 and it is considered to be a family event and a time of thanksgiving and celebration.

It is celebrated on the first day of the first moon of the lunar calendar.

It means that the date varies year to year and can fall any time between January 21 and February 19.