FIRECRACKERS and dragons brought thousands into Liverpool city centre yesterday to celebrate Chinese New Year. Members of Europe’s oldest Chinese community heralded the festivities as the biggest and best ever.

Chih Kao Tseng, deputy chairman of the UK Chinese Freemason Association, said: “The crowds are pretty good again, and this is something we’re very proud of here in Liverpool, as without the support and enthusiasm of the people, we would have no New Year festival.”

More than 20,000 people turned out to watch the spectacle as the Year of the Rat gave way to the Ox.

While 2008 was a massive year for both China and Liverpool, who hosted the Olympics and European Capital of Culture respectively, the Year of the Ox is also seen as key for the city’s future progress.

City leaders are finalising plans for a showcase in Liverpool’s Chinese twin city at the Shanghai Expo 2010. The event will be a significant opportunity to attract investment, as Liverpool is one of only two UK cities represented at the world’s largest business convention.

Cllr Warren Bradley, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Liverpool’s Chinese community plays a huge role in the multi-cultural life of the city and made a fantastic contribution to our Capital of Culture celebrations.

“Over the past decade, the Chinese New Year celebrations have got better and better. The next 12-18 months will also see the city forge even closer bonds with China through the Expo, and I hope the year of the Ox can live up to its meaning as one of prosperity.”