Make a wish:
Londoners throw their wishes at Hong Kong's wishing tree display at the Lord Mayor's Show.
Good fortune:
The gods of luck, wealth and long life also join the parade.
HK's Wishing Tree on show in London
November 14, 2010
A replica of Hong Kong's famous Wishing Tree went on display in London today as part of the Lord Mayor's Show.
Hong Kong's sixth time in the show, the theme of this year's entry was health, wealth and happiness and featured a replica of the famous Lam Tsuen "Wishing Tree". People along the parade route threw "wishes" at the tree, in the hope they would stay in the branches so the wishes come true.
The float featured the tree preceded by the gods of luck, wealth and long life, and was accompanied by drummers, a dragon dance team and kung fu artists. Hong Kong's float was number 38, which in Cantonese signifies "luck" and "prosperity".
Director-General of the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, London, Agnes Allcock said Hong Kong's display shows the vibrant, colourful life and traditions of the city.
She said she looked forward to meeting Lord Mayor Elect Alderman Michael Bear and working with him. She also hoped the show will encourage travel to Hong Kong.
Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Prof KC Chan will be the first senior Hong Kong Government official to meet the new mayor when he visits London on November 16.
The Lord Mayor's Show started in 1215 and now sees more than half a million people take to the streets to see the parade annually. It is also broadcast live across the UK and abroad.
Click here for more on the Lord Mayor's Show.
