By VIVIENNE NICOLL

A MULTICULTURAL celebration is to be held in Glasgow to signal the start of the Chinese New Year.

To mark the Year of the Dog which began yesterday, a public performance will be held in George Square tomorrow between noon and 12.30pm.

The programme will feature a traditional dragon eye-dotting ceremony, dragon and lion dances and music from Glasgow police pipe band and African drummers.

The event has been organised by the Chinese Cultural and Welfare Society Scotland in partnership with the city council.

A civic reception for invited guests in the City chambers, hosted by Lord Provost Eva Bolander, will include Oriental and Scottish music and dancing as well as activities for children.

Ms Bolander said: “I am really looking forward to the Chinese New year celebrations in George Square. There are always wonderful performances full of vibrancy and colour.

“Glasgow is proud of its ethnic diversity an it is fantastic to have an opportunity to demonstrate so visibly, this city’s support for our Chinese community and send them and their countrymen and women our congratulations and best wishes for Chinese New Year.”

Andy Chung, chairman of the welfare society, said: “We are delighted to celebrate this important event in our home city of Glasgow and pleased to have the support of the Lord Provost.

“It is a joyful and colourful occasion and everyone is welcome to come and watch the performance in George Square.”