YOUNGSTERS from St Bernadette's Pre-school Playgroup in Bispham have been experiencing their own view from the East.

The children donned dragon masks and hats to celebrate the Chinese New Year, and learn about its origin, such as how ancient legend says 12 animals were selected to represent different years.

They also made lanterns and tried some traditional Chinese food prepared by one of the group assistants.

Playgroup supervisor Linda Farrell said: "We spent a short time every day for two weeks celebrating the New Year.

"It was a real success as it was educational as well as a lot of fun.

"Not only did the children learn a little history but they also made their own Chinese hats and lanterns which they really enjoyed.

"They even played with a replica model of a dragon to the sound of Chinese music, which actually happens in the celebrations in China."

"Learning about other culture's celebrations like this is fun for everyone, as the children learn about other peoples and beliefs, while the group assistants learn something from the research and preparation they do for the project."

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