A RAT attracted a lion and 200 onlookers when the Chinese new year was celebrated in Kimbolton on Sunday. The year of the rat, which is associated with aggression, wealth and charm, started on Thursday. And to mark the occasion a traditional lion dance

A RAT attracted a lion and 200 onlookers when the Chinese new year was celebrated in Kimbolton on Sunday.

The year of the rat, which is associated with aggression, wealth and charm, started on

Thursday.

And to mark the occasion a traditional lion dance took place in the village.

The Lion Dance Company of Corby performed the dance outside the Wriggly Dragon Chinese restaurant in the White Horse pub in Newtown Lane.

Alan Smith, team leader at the dance company, said the dance was used to ward off evil spirits and saw the lion 'eat' a lettuce before tearing it up and throwing it to the crowd.

Chinese legend states that if a piece of lettuce hits you, it will bring good luck.

Picture: HELEN DRAKE