Chinese New Year is a major event in London. In fact the city has hosted the largest New Year events outside of Asia.

Performers make their way through central London as they take part in Chiense New Year celebrations.

Thousands celebrated in London on Sunday, with firecrackers ushering in the official festivities of the Year of the Dragon. Chinatown also marked ten years of hosting celebrations in the historic Trafalgar Square in the shadows of Nelson's Column.

Mayor Boris Johnson welcomed the crowds by taking part in the Dotting of the Eye ceremony -- bringing the dragons and lions to life.

100 world renowned performers, including the Chen Brothers' Flying Lion Dance, highlighted the day.

Performers make their way through central London as they take part in Chiense New Year celebrations.

Queen Elizabeth and British Prime Minister David Cameron also sent goodwill messages to the crowds.

2012 is not only a year of celebrations for London, seeing the Olympic Games and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, but also the year that marks 40 years of full diplomatic relations between Britain and China.