The West Yorkshire Chinese Community Association is gearing up to celebrate the Chinese New Year on Friday.

Members gathered at the Yama oriental takeaway in Halifax Road, Cullingworth, which association vice-chairman Peter Chiu ran for more than 35 years before handing over the reins to his son last year.

“We want to wish a happy new year to all our members,” said Mr Chiu.

“We hope the celebrations will help to promote friendships across all communities in the Bradford district.”

The association’s unicorn and dragon costumes arrived from Hong Kong last week, and will be used in future events and demonstrations.

In Chinese astrology, the Year of the Horse is considered a fortunate year that brings luck and good things.

People born during the year are said to be bright, cheerful, and fun loving. A celebration dinner for association members and their families will be held at the Win Bar restaurant in Farsley on Monday to mark the festivities for the Year of the Horse.