NORTH Ayrshire’s Provost joined celebrations to mark the Chinese New Year.

The colourful two-day celebrations included a concert in Edinburgh and a stunning show of Chinese culture in Glasgow’s George Square with dragon and lion dancers and a costume parade.

Provost Clarkson, who was invited as a guest of Mr Xinchun Pan, Consul General of the Consulate of China.

The Provost has built up a strong relationship with the Consul General and has held a number of meetings to strengthen bonds between China and Scotland, with a view to forging links in trade, culture, education and sports.

The Provost said: “It was a hectic few days, but thoroughly worthwhile, seeing such a rich and vibrant culture.”

In Chinese culture, 2019 is the Year of the Pig, which represents luck, overall good fortune, wealth, honesty and general prosperity.