Thriving Manchester is busy and booming again, as leaders, business bosses and tourism chiefs herald the gradual return of pre-pandemic numbers into the city centre.
A trip into town on a Friday or Saturday night, or day, over recent weeks proves the point exactly - it's rammed with crowds and atmosphere. The Christmas markets are back with a bang, the football World Cup is on and Santa has taken his rightful place as a festive fever returns once again to the heart of the city.
Free from the shackles of Covid restrictions, the city centre appears back to its bustling best, with reports of record visitor numbers at the markets over recent weekends. Even council chiefs admit they have been taken by surprise by the sheer scale of the crowds glugging Gluhwein as the sound of singing and sizzling sausages fills the air.
