MANCHESTER will mark the Chinese New Year in style by staging a traditional dragon dance in Chinatown.

Thousands are expected to turn out for the dragon parade, from Albert Square to Chinatown, on February 18, from 1pm.

Events to usher in the Year of the Pig will also include a Kung Fu display, folk dancing, oriental music and stalls in Faulkner Street car park.

Councillor Mark Hackett said: "Its a special day for our Chinese community and will draw in thousands of visitors to the city centre."

The official celebrations end with a firework display at 6.30pm.