Oriental treat for veterans

CHINESE and British traditions overlapped for hundreds of war veterans and their families yesterday when dragon and lion dances preceded beating retreat at Stonecutters Island.

Governor Chris Patten and Commander British Forces Hong Kong Major-General Bryan Dutton were among the guests at the Military Tattoo being performed for the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Hong Kong.

The Royal Hong Kong Regiment (the Volunteers), due to disband on Sunday, performed the dragon dance for more than 400 war veterans and their families.

The Minden Band of the Queen's Division, which has come to Hong Kong for the liberation celebrations, then beat retreat.

The veterans were then treated to a motorcycle display by 29 Transport Squadron, Royal Logistic Corps and a barbecue at HMS Tamar.

They were due to attend a Service of Remembrance at Sai Wan War Cemetery today and visit Stanley Prison where many civilians were interned.