MORE technically advanced than ever before, Robin Hill launched its Spirit of the Orient event on Friday (February 15).

It is one of the park’s award-winning Electric Woods events, and one of the UK’s biggest festivals celebrating Chinese New Year.

Spirit of the Orient ran throughout half-term and finishes on Saturday (February 23).

It offers a dazzling fusion of sound, colour, illuminations and oriental flavours amid ancient, 88-acre woodlands, lit with 4,500 lights.

It features impressive new light exhibits, a 12-metre long dragon procession, new interactive woodland light shows and traditional lion dances — al in honour of the year of the Earth Pig.

Among the highlights are the 3D magical water projections floating on the lakes, Britain’s biggest Chinese festival lantern and a new Cascading Bridge exhibit including omni-directional sound, light, projection and pyrotechnics.

James Crofts, park manager at Robin Hill, said: “So far we’ve seen record-breaking visitor numbers in the park for February half term.

“The team have worked so hard this year and as a result the event is looking better than ever – it’s also more technically advanced than ever before which is a huge achievement and something we can’t wait to build on later in the year for Festival of Light.

“Opening night was a really fun, encouraging evening and the customer feedback throughout has been fantastic. People seem to be particularly enjoying the food available at the Woodland Ponds.

“If you haven’t visited yet, don’t miss out.”