Mayor joins Sevenoaks festival to mark the Year of the Snake
Published: 04 February 2025
Mayor of Sevenoaks Cllr Libby Ancrum came face to face with a Chinese Dragon when she visited the Spring Festival Gala at the Chinese School in Sevenoaks.
The event to mark the beginning of the Year of the Snake was organised by the Dartford Chinese School Sevenoaks Branch which runs a Chinese language and culture school for children each week.
The cultural celebration included fun activities, face painting and Calligraphy for the children, a talent show, and lunch buffet. Families of local school students, teachers and the local community come together to enjoy the festivities.
Speaking at the start of the event, the Mayor said: “I am lucky enough to have attended many Chinese New Year celebrations in the past as I lived in Hong Kong for several years. I can still recall the fun and excitement of the festival and especially the special food.
“The coming year is the Year of the Snake, a special year for my husband and myself as we have a daughter born in that Year.”
The Mayor, who attended with her consort Cllr David Skinner, was welcomed by Shirley Huang, deputy headteacher, who commented how culture and tradition can bring people together.
She added: “We also greatly appreciate your recognition of our efforts to bring an international element to Sevenoaks and your commitment to fostering multicultural harmony.”
For information on Dartford Chinese School Sevenoaks Branch see www.dartfordchineseschool.co.uk