IT USED to be the home of the Flying Scotsman, but on Saturday, the railway was home to a flying dragon, as Reading celebrated the Chinese New Year.
Passengers at the Reading town centre transport hub were treated to a special display of dancing to mark the start of the year of the rabbit.
It included a flash mob of 30 dancers from the from South Gloucestershire Chinese Association (SGCA) on the station concourse, followed by a traditional dragon dance.
It was organised by Great Western Railway (GWR) on the day of the Lunar New Year and echoed traditions that go back to the 14th century.
Each Chinese calendar year is marked by one of 12 different animals: last year it was the tiger and now it is the turn of the rabbit.
Established in 2001, South Gloucestershire Chinese Association aims to bring together the Chinese community living, working or studying in the area, to identify and meet their needs through a variety of projects and activities in association with different organisations and service providers.
It receives support from GWR’s community budget to help fund its dance teaching and provide a space for the group to meet.
The dances were a way of celebrating the partnership.
The group’s Secretary, Rong Yang, said it was an opportunity to showcase Chinese culture.
“With the great support from GWR and Network Rail, members of South Gloucestershire Chinese Association headed to Reading station to perform in a fantastic flash mob,” she said.
“There was also a mix of traditional and modern dances, tai chi demonstrations, and a mighty dragon dance show.
“If you were in Reading we hoped you enjoyed a truly unforgettable cultural experience.”
Network Rail’s station manager for Reading, Bernadette Sachse, added: “We were thrilled to help the SCGA celebrate Chinese New Year at Reading station on Saturday.
“The dancing brought a smile to the faces of everyone who passed through, with plenty of colourful activities to brighten up a cold January day.”
And GWR Community Manager Emma Morris said: “GWR is delighted to support projects such as SGCA’s Chinese New Year celebration through its Community budget.
“Projects like these are a great way to get the local community involved and help amplify the voices of underrepresented groups across our network.”
All pictures: Steve Smyth
