BOURNEMOUTH is leading Britain in promoting harmony between the indigenous population and ethnic minorities.

This was the theme at the official opening yesterday of the Bournemouth Chinese School in Moordown.

Bournemouth Mayor Cllr Douglas Eyre echoed the words of representatives from the People's Republic of China embassy and the Association for the Promotion of Chinese Education in the UK, when he said: "It is very important that different cultures and backgrounds are proudly fostered and cherished. This school is a shining example to the world of what can be achieved through goodwill and everyone working together."

The school has 151 children, aged from four, who are taught Cantonese and Mandarin by eight teachers.