In pictures: Rugby town centre comes alive with high energy music, dance and displays for Chinese New Year

And for the more gently minded, there were demonstrations of calligraphy and origami and performances of Chinese ballet. But no fireworks.

Making up for the cancellation of last year's celebrations when Storm Eowyn passed through Rugby, the local Chinese community put on a show that attracted a large crowd who enjoyed a celebration of Chinese culture.

Celebrating New Year in traditional style, which is a time for family reunions, this year's event ushered in the year of the Fire Horse which symbolises a period of vitality, courage and intensity; this was on display with the traditional street parade; led by a big friendly dragon and a long smiling snake, both bobbed and slid their way around the town centre to the sound of a travelling kettle drum.

Amy Zhang who is the Chairperson of Rugby Warwickshire Chinese Society who helped organise the event, said: "Chinese new Year is an important event in Chinese community.

"I am so pleased we were able share our annual celebration with local communities. What we planned to do was to provide a real taste of Chinese culture and provide lots of fun and enjoyment. From the feedback we have had, I think we succeeded.” Linda Lowne, director of Rugby First, who were one of the main organisers of the event, said: “I was delighted to be part of bringing Chinese New Year celebrations to Rugby Town Centre.

"The Chinese community in Rugby continues to grow and play an important part in the life of our town."

The fire horse represents strength, vitality, and action. People born in 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, or 2014 are considered to be a horse.

The celebration lasts for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival.

Homes are decorated red, symbolising luck, prosperity and good health. They are also decorated with flowers to welcome new beginnings.

Families enjoy a reunion dinner, which is seen as the most important dinner of the year.