Thousands come to join London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2015 (with photos)
************************************************************

     Thousands of people enjoyed the 2015 London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in London's Docklands and helped raise money for Chinese charities in London.

     People of all nationalities enjoyed the 2015 London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, which took place at the London Regatta Centre in the Royal Albert Dock on June 28 (London time).

     The festival was once again sponsored by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO), and organised by the London Chinatown Lions Club with support from The Hong Kong Executives Club and the London Chinatown Chinese Community Centre.

     As well as a full day of racing, the festival also featured cultural performances organised by Spectrum Radio International, including lion and dragon dancing, live music, martial art demonstrations and traditional dancing. The event also included the East West Stage, featuring local and UK pop music acts. There was also a food festival allowing people to try traditional food from all over Asia.

     The Director-General of the London ETO, Ms Erica Ng, said "Today, we had a record 44 dragon boat teams taking part in a thrilling and spectacular competition here in London's Docklands. With boat racing, wonderful food, music and dancing, the festival has become one of London's key cultural events. We have taken an ancient Chinese tradition and transformed it into a modern sport. Dragon boat racing is a perfect showcase for Hong Kong's vibrant culture."

     More information about the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2015 is available at www.lhkdbf.co.uk.

Ends/Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Issued at HKT 07:03

NNNN