Have just returned from a couple of days in Manchester, and despite my utter dislike for anything associated with Man Utd PLC I have to admit that its a city I like more and more every time I go there. A couple of things were particularly nice about this trip.

1. The Christmas market in Albert Square . This is a fantastic idea and one I hope my home town of Brighton copies. You can buy german sausage (great for Miriam ), gluvine, cheeses, sweets and pints of excellent german beer. Superb atmosphere as well even though there was a huge Chelsea fan base there. Very festive and well worth checking out of you’re nearby http://www.manchester.gov.uk/markets/specialist/christmas.htm

2. The Midland Hotel. This was the first time I’d seen the Midland since its vast rennovation and have to say it’s spectacular. the public areas and main bar in particular are stunnng ; fresh and remaining stylish and classy www.qhotels.co.uk  

So Manchester is on the up in my humble opinion, but that still doesnt make up for the whingeing Sir Alex.