A dancing lion joined martial arts enthusiasts at the opening of a new Chinese culture centre in Golders Green.

More than 150 people filled the Tang Long Chinese Culture Centre in St Albans Lane to celebrate the official opening on Saturday.

The Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Melvin Cohen, attended the event, at whcih Chinese dancers performed alongside martial arts experts.

The centre offers a range of martial arts classes including kung fu and boxing as well as street dance.

Co-founder Karen Forbes told the Times Series: “I started training in 2001 and it has been a passion of mine ever since. I’ve been to China half-a-dozen times and I wanted to bring a bit of their culture over here.

“Now people will be able to train with a proper Chinese master on their doorstep. It’s open to everybody regardless of their religion, race or age – we want to build a community, bring a bit of life to Golders Green and promote health and fitness.”