Staff and residents at a care home welcomed in the Year of the Ox with a day of celebrations and activities.

Inspired by Chinese culture and traditions, lucky red envelopes were exchanged and Wilsmere House in Harrow Weald was decorated with hanging red lanterns.

Residents learnt all about the traditions and superstitions of Chinese New Year.

The chef cooked up an oriental feast for lunch with the food washed down with pots of Chinese tea.

Lili Cocue general manager of Barchester’s Wilsmere House said: “We have had a brilliant day, the home looks absolutely wonderful decorated all in red.

"We all had such fun finding out what animal we are, the associated traits and reading each other’s horoscopes.

"The residents loved watching videos of traditional lion and dragon dances too."

One care home resident said of the experience: "I loved the music, the vibrant costumes and learning all about the Chinese Zodiac animal traits.

"A person born in the Year of the Ox is strong, reliable, fair and conscientious.

"I find it fascinating to learn all about different traditions."