Derby Homes will be holding celebrations on Monday 19 February 2007 to mark the Chinese New Year.

Between 12pm and 2pm, Derby Homes staff, partners and customers will have the opportunity to eat mouth-watering Chinese cuisine, learn about the many customs and traditions associated with this celebration, experience Chinese Horoscopes and take part in a raffle to raise money for The Friends of The Macmillan Unit.

Chinese New Year is the longest and most important celebration in the Chinese calendar. The Chinese year 4705 begins on February 18 2007. This year is the year of the pig and it is said that those born in pig years tend to have excellent manners, make and keep friends, work very hard, and appreciate luxury. They are very loving and make loyal partners.

James & Yenny Fu the proprietors of the Excelsior Restaurant on Becket Street, Derby which is providing the food for the event will also be giving people information about the celebration on the day.  They will officially open the festivities at 12pm and staff, City Councillors, contractors and board members will join in the celebrations.

Phil Davies, Chief Executive of Derby Homes said: “This is a great opportunity for all of us at Derby Homes to learn about a vibrant part of the Derby community, and to raise funds for a local charity. Its part of Derby Homes' commitment to diversity and encouraging community cohesion. The Chinese New Year is 4705, which makes you realise how ancient the Chinese civilisation is. And yet today China is the new economic superpower. I am looking forward to learning more about Chinese food, customs and traditions.”

The festivities will have an informal and relaxed atmosphere and staff will be encouraged to dress in non-work clothes. All proceeds raised during the day will go to Charity.

Derby Homes would like to invite members of the Chinese Community to join them in this celebration.  If you would like to attend the event, or want more information please contact Carl Willis on 01332 711046 or email carl.willis@derbyhomes.org