LONG after even the most severe of the December 31 hangovers have worn off, more than two billion people are marking the advent of their own New Year.

Today signifies the beginning of the Chinese New Year, and the Chinese community in Gwent will be observing the traditions of their culture to bring themselves good luck, health and prosperity over the next 12 months.

Although the advent of the Chinese New Year is today, members of the Chinese community will not be gathering to celebrate until February 1, when they will meet at the Riverside Suite of Newport Leisure Centre.

May Ling Seho Evans, chairwoman of the Chinese Centre, in Newport, said: "Everybody will be celebrating the beginning of the new year with their families, but we thought we could all meet up together on February 1, which is still the new year on the Chinese calendar.

"We are expecting up to 300 people, as well as local dignitaries such as MP Paul Flynn."

The Chinese New Year starts with the new moon on the first day of the new year, and ends with the full moon 15 days later.

There are many superstitions connected with the Chinese New Year, such as cleaning the house from top to bottom beforehand. It is also bad luck to wash your hair, as it will wash away good luck for the new year.

Mrs Evans added: "The beginning of the new year is very significant, because if you start it off badly, then you have had it. On the other hand, if you get it off to a good start, you will be blessed with health, happiness and prosperity."

Organisers are determined the local Chinese community will have a good 2004 - by planning the best possible start to the new year, with a large get-together on February 1 for everyone to remember their culture and heritage.

And youngsters are also set for a happy new year financially. "One of the most common practices is for parents to give their children red envelopes with money inside," Mrs Evans said.

"This is seen as being vital for the children's education and health."