THE magic of Far East culture came to the North East yesterday as thousands turned out to mark Chinese New Year.

The sound of firecrackers and the aroma of Chinese cuisine and incense filled Newcastle’s Stowell Street as the North East welcomed in the Year of the Dragon.

Considered the luckiest of the Chinese zodiac, the arrival of the ‘king of beasts’ was celebrated with a traditional dragon, lion and unicorn procession making its way through Chinatown’s ornate arch.

Hundreds of families from all backgrounds stayed to watch performers take to the stage while a spot of rain failed to dampen spirits. Bath Lane and Thornton Square were transformed into a funfair and Chinese market and people tried their hand at fortune-telling, calligraphy and calendar-making at The Chinese Centre on Westgate Road.

Spectators at Bath Lane also witnessed a traditional eye dotting ceremony, which is believed to awaken the dragon from its slumber.

Dr Yong Shu Wu, a skilled calligrapher, artist and musician, was at the North East Chinese Association, on Stowell Street, to share his culture with youngsters.

The 78-year-old, fresh from celebrating the new year, estimated thousands had been through the doors before noon.

He said: “The atmosphere is brilliant.

“Most years we have attendance of around 10,000, a lot of people love this event.

“We get a very, very good response from the public and we hope we can better it in the future.”

There was also an exhibition of Chinese costume, food, arts and craft at the association and a children’s marquee on Thornton Square also ran arts and craft activities.

Dance City, with The Chinese Students and Scholars Association and Newcastle University also celebrated Chinese culture with activities and games.

Carol Bell, head of culture and major events at NewcastleGateshead Initiative said: “Newcastle hosts one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations north of Manchester and every year the festivities attract thousands of people into the city centre.

“Together with the Chinese Festivity Group, we have programmed a full day of events and activities celebrating Chinese history and heritage, as well as celebrating the Chinese community living in NewcastleGateshead. Everything is free to attend and there’s something to suit every age so it’s a brilliant day out for all the family.”

Amanda Chan from the Chinese Festivity Group said: “The Chinese New Year celebrations in Newcastle are a fantastic opportunity for people to learn about Chinese culture and experience firsthand some of the traditions and ceremonies that are unique to Chinese people. This year will be extra special as we welcome a brand new dragon.”