Bristol business leaders were out in force for the annual Chinese New Year Reception and Banquet organised by the Bristol and West of England China Bureau.
The banquet – described as a ‘must-go’ celebration by Bureau chief executive Dianne Francombe – was held at Double Tree Hilton in conjunction with patron Suzanna Ho from the Dynasty and Zen restaurants in the city.
Dianne said: “This is one of the genuine high spots of the city’s business calendar with more than 220 guests from the business and Chinese community coming together to enjoy a unique networking experience – and celebrate the Year of the Dog.
“Doubletree Hilton certainly rose to the occasion – showing how well East meets West in one of the city’s premier hotels.
“The venue provided additional space to ensure that the University of Bristol Lion Dance Troupe were able to perform a magnificent dance to welcome in the Year of the Dog and provide all guests with a personal welcome.”
The Lord Mayor of Bristol Cllr Lesley Alexander threw a lucky red envelope into the lion’s mouth – and, according to tradition, can now expect great luck and good fortune for the coming year.
As well as the Lord Mayor, guests included civic and business leaders from across the region.
Bristol and West of England enjoy strong links with China, particularly Bristol’s sister city of Guangzhou and the wider Guangdong region.
Dianne added: “The Chinese New Year is the most celebrated festival in the Chinese calendar and provides a fantastic opportunity for some excellent networking and a fantastic meal.
“The level of conversation was testament to the many exciting projects that are happening and of course the many more ideas which emerged during the evening.”
The Bristol and the West of England China Bureau helps connect members of the Bristol Chinese community, West of England businesses who have already forged links with China, as well as people interested in making new contacts and enjoying Chinese culture.
It was formed in 1998 as the Bristol China Partnership but has since widened its reach to provide the entire West of England with a platform for businesses and individuals to connect with like-minded organisations in China.
It collaborates with organisations in China and the UK to stage events that help inform and advise members on business opportunities in China and drive economic growth between the West of England and China. It also supports business delegations to China.
Pictured below: The traditional welcome performed by the University of Bristol Lion Dance Troupe
Pictured below: Bristol and West of England China Bureau chief executive Dianne Francombe with Double Tree By Hilton General Manager John Dowling
Pictured below: The Lord Mayor of Bristol Cllr Lesley Alexander with Lu Lu from the Bristol West of England China Bureau
