BANGOR'S Chinese New Year celebrations planned for Saturday have been cancelled in the shadow of the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak.

Organisers say the move comes after talks with the Chinese community in Bangor and is a mark of "solidarity and concern for friends and colleagues" in China.

A statement on behalf of the Confucius Institute, who organise the city's annual Dragon parade and Chinese gala which this year marked the Year of the Metal Rat, have issued the following statement:

“The Lunar new year is one of the most important events celebrated by Chinese people across the world which sadly has been overshadowed by the outbreak of the coronavirus.

"Our hearts go with our Chinese friends, colleagues and everyone affected by this dreadful coronavirus both at home and abroad.

"After discussions with members of the Chinese community in north Wales, and out of solidarity and concern for friends and colleagues in China it has been decided to cancel the Chinese New Year Celebrations in Bangor on Saturday, February 1.