Manchester has been named as one of the best top 10 cities in the world for sport, according to a prestigious 2023 ranking.
But was there really ever any doubt?
More than two decades on from hosting the Commonwealth Games all the way back in 2002, our city continues to be recognised as a sporting powerhouse, and to prove this, Manchester has come in at number five on the BCW Top 50 Global Sport Cities ranking for 2023.
Not only is it the only UK city, apart from London, to make it into the coveted top 10, but it’s also jumped up a few places its ranking in eighth place in 2022.
Some of the city’s world-class facilities, including the National Cycling Centre and National Squash Centre were all noted as going toward it clinching eighth place on the list, as well as the thriving visitor economy strengthened by sporting attractions like National Football Museum, Emirates Old Trafford, and both football stadiums.
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On top of this, the recent renovation works at the National Cycling Centre and the Aquatics Centre were noted, as were the dozens of other sporting projects said to be either in development or underway across the city region that are expected to be complete by 2025.
Paris, New York, Barcelona, and Tokyo are some of the other global cities to have made the 2023 list.
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The National Aquatic Centre in Manchester / Credit: British SwimmingManchester Velodrome and Emirates Old Trafford cricket ground / Credit: National Cycling Centre | Emirates Old Trafford
Manchester City Council says it’s “very proud” to have received this recognition after the investment that’s been put in to place the city on the international sporting map.
“Hosting the Commonwealth Games cemented Manchester’s reputation as one of the leading cities for sport and two decades on participation in sport has grown, we have widened access and encouraged residents to lead more active lifestyles, connecting sport with health and well-being,” said Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member Skills, Employment and Leisure.
“The long-term benefits of sporting regeneration are not just seen at a national level but regional and local level as well as we continue to see capital investment in our sporting infrastructures, and major sporting events being held here.
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“We have continued to expand, extend and modernise many of our facilities.”
A Twilight rave is coming to Manchester with DJs blasting 2000s indie and emo anthems
Emily Sergeant
A Twilight rave is coming to Manchester this spooky season.
It’s been nearly 20 years since the release of the titular first film in the Twilight Saga, based on author Stephanie Meyer’s bestselling book series of the same name, but despite two decades having passed, the films remain as beloved as ever.
Twilight went on to become a global phenomenon when it first hit cinemas back in November 2008, not just with its target audience of teens and young adults, but with people of all ages – making stars out of its lead actors Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart in the process, and generating millions at the box office.
With the impact it had on the culture at the time, it’s no wonder Twilight remained among fans’ favourites all these years later.
And this success is why events company Throwback Events is hosting a series of Twilight Raves across the UK and Europe this autumn, making a stop off here in Manchester in late November with tickets now on sale.
The event description reads: “Bella, where the hell you been loca? Join us as we celebrate Twilight at the club, where every day is Hoa Hoa Hoa season.
“Step into the shadows and relive the magic, mystery, and eternal romance of Twilight. Get ready for a night of anthems, nostalgia, and glittering darkness as we transform the dancefloor into Forks’ most iconic vampire coven.”
DJs will be spinning Twilight soundtracks on the night, alongside dark pop, emo, indie, and 2000s bangers, as well as playing fan edits from the films on big screens.
Oh, and to make it all the better, dressing up as vampires and werewolves is ‘highly encouraged’.
Fancy it then? The Twilight Rave is coming to the Deaf Institute in Manchester on Saturday 21 November, and tickets will set you back upwards of £7 each.
Manchester cinemas are offering tickets to big blockbusters for just £4 this weekend
Emily Sergeant
You can watch some of the year’s biggest blockbusters for just £4 this weekend.
That’s because, to celebrate National Cinema Weekend (5-6 September), Vue has announced that it’ll be offering cut-price tickets to everything from the latest blockbusters and family favourites, to indie horrors and classic re-releases, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the full cinematic experience this autumn.
Some of the highlights currently showing that you’ll be able to see for just £4 include summer hits like Spider-Man: Brand New Day, The Odyssey, and Toy Story 5, as well as the recent release of Ridley Scott’s latest film, The Dog Stars, starring Jacob Elordi.
Family favourites such as Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie, and Cars will also be screening over National Cinema Weekend.
Meanwhile, horror fans can also catch new releases Insidious: Out of the Further, and indie horror Leviticus, or see the year’s biggest horror hit, Obsession, if you haven’t already.
The best bit about the offer? It applies to every seat on every showing, all weekend long.
This means that film lovers can enjoy Vue’s biggest and comfiest seats, Ultra Lux, which are strategically positioned to give the best possible view of the big screen – with extra-wide armrests, back and leg rests that recline independently, a personal table for snacks and beverages, and a state-of-the-art wine cooler, all for just £4 each.
Mike Anton, General Manager at Vue Manchester Printworks, said it’s been ‘an incredible year’ for film, adding: “This National Cinema Weekend, we want to celebrate the big screen experience by giving back to our audiences.
Emily Sergeant -
23rd October 2023 
