Her Worship the Mayor, Councillor Sara Hackman JP, joined in the celebrations on Sunday June 14 to celebrate the arrival of the Isle of Man Chinese Association’s new lion dance equipment.

The event took place in Regent Street, Douglas where Her Worship was joined by members of the association and its patron, Geoff Corkish MLC.

First vice-chairman and director of the association Teresa Crane explained that it was Chinese tradition to bless the lions and put the spirit into them by dotting their eyes. She went on to say that the lions would play ‘an important role in representing our Chinese Association and interacting with local culture on the Island.’ She added: ‘Most importantly we hope that they will bring good fortune and prosperity to the Isle of Man throughout the years.

 The Mayor and Mayoress with Phyllis Waugh

‘Also we would like to show our gratitude to all our sponsors, Mr and Mrs David and Amy Tang, Mr and Mrs Tommy and May Tang, Mrs Phyllis Waugh and Mrs Siu Ing Gould. Their generosity enabled us to purchase the new lions and costumes have come all the way from Guangzhou in China.’