ORIENTAL celebrations were taking place across the area last week to mark the Chinese New Year of the Monkey.

Knights Enham Infant School held an art week dedicated to the festival, organised by arts manager Chris Mussellwhite.

Grants from Test Valley and Gales Trust allowed the school to invite artists in to work with pupils and a variety of activities were organised to help the children develop their knowledge and understanding of the culture and traditions of Chinese New Year.

The week started with dance workshops led by Yan Zhou with years one and two learning simple steps and the dance of the monkey while another visitor cooked stir fry with pupils.

Local art teacher Daniel Lobb helped the whole school make two dragon's heads while other activities included lantern making, Chinese calligraphy, willow pattern plate designs, sewing, painting and drawing.

Salisbury artist Alex Grant led batik and silk painting and the week ended with dragon racing, dragon dancing and Chinese drum and gong music.

Over at Cricklade College, year 10 and 11 pupils from Harrow Way and Winton secondary schools who are involved with the college's hospitality and catering course, cooked up large quantities of food which was served to other students.

Learners are involved in the college's innovative 14 to 16 provision, which allows the school pupils to pursue a vocational path alongside regular schoolwork.