The Midlands Chinese Federation, a new charity created to support Chinese community and culture across the region, has been officially launched.

More than 100 guests gathered at Chung Ying Restaurant, in the heart of Birmingham's Chinatown, to celebrate the arrival of the organisation and were presented with the Federation's vision to unite organisations across the Midlands and strengthen the Chinese community.

MCF has been created to act as an umbrella organisation supporting collaboration, partnership and long-term community development.

Its formation unites long-established community groups including Overseas Chinese Association, Birmingham Chinatown Lions, Chinese Community Centre Birmingham and  England China Business Forum, with shared ambitions of preserving cultural heritage and strengthening engagement across civic, educational, and cultural sectors.

The Federation will also work on developing and growing Birmingham's Chinese New Year celebrations - which this year drew 60,000 visitors throughout the weekend - and help realise the long-held ambition of a Birmingham Chinatown Arch.

The evening launch event brought together former Leader of Birmingham City Council Ian Ward, who chairs the Federation's Board of Trustees, Deputy Lieutenant Ninder Johal CBE DL, and former Lord Mayor of Birmingham Ken Wood, along with leaders of the Midlands Irish community, Business Improvement Districts, representatives from the region’s arts and culture sector, and Chinese business, cultural, and voluntary organisations.

Founder and trustee James Wong said: "The Midlands Chinese Federation has been created to bring people together. By working collaboratively, we can strengthen our community, celebrate our culture and create opportunities that will benefit future generations.

“We were delighted to unveil the MCF vision, and look forward to realising our shared vision together.”

The Federation is now inviting individuals, businesses and organisations to become involved by sharing ideas, building partnerships, volunteering and supporting its work.

For more information on the Midlands Chinese Federation (MCF), visit midlandschinese.org.uk