Chinese people settled in the Berkshire town to work and study from the early 20th century, but their achievements and the barriers they faced were untold until this project showcased them.

Led by the Reading Chinese Association (RCA), volunteers interviewed community elders and gathered a wide range of fascinating artefacts, documents, photographs and memorabilia.

A resulting publication and exhibition at Reading Museum finally put on the map a community that today makes up 4.5% of the town’s 150,000 plus population. Also, for the first time, the colourful celebration of the Chinese New Year was brought to the town centre.

Erika Wong, Reading Chinese Association, said: “This funding has ensured that those living in the Reading area have been made more aware of the existence of the Chinese community in the region. The RCA have also grown their awareness and they remind people local to the area that they are welcome to attend their events to learn more about the culture and socialise with the members of the group.”