The Mayor Celebrates Lunar New Year with Guildford Hongkongers

Published on: 15 Feb, 2025
Updated on: 15 Feb, 2025

A Chinese lion led the Lunar New Year procession.

The Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Sallie Barker, joined Guildford Hongkongers celebrating the Guildford Lunar New Year at a market organised to mark the event.

Celebrations started with a traditional Lion Procession leading local dignitaries up the nave of Guildford Cathedral, followed by a Lion Dance to welcome the new year.

Leaders of the Hong Kong community were joined by the Mayor; Neelam Devesher DL, who is Deputy Lieutenant for Surrey and Chair of the Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum; Guildford MP Zöe Franklin; and the Revd Canon Chris Hollingshurst, Canon Residentiary of Guildford Cathedral.

The Mayor of Guildford Sallie Barker MBE

In her opening speech, Cllr Barker, who has visited Hong Kong twice, spoke fondly of an exciting and vibrant place with friendly and helpful people. Since becoming Mayor, she has attended events organised by Guildford Hongkongers and believes they have brought incredible energy to our town and the friendliness she noticed when in Hong Kong.

The Mayor finished her speech by thanking everyone for their hard work in putting on the day’s Lunar Market and wished everyone a Happy New Year in Cantonese: “Kong hey fat choi”.

She then spoke with stallholders, who were selling handmade crafts, delicious food, and other products to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

Speaking after the event, the Mayor commented: “We’re dedicated to making Guildford a welcoming borough and a place where everyone can be authentic and contribute to the wellbeing and success of our communities.

“I hope this is evident to Hongkongers, whose presence is enriching the cultural diversity and vibrancy of Guildford.”

The Lunar New Year started on January 29 with celebrations lasting for 15 days. This year marks the Year of the Snake.