Manchester aviation fans will be able to tuck into a lavish banquet-style dinner beneath the wings of an old Concorde plane next month.
In what is a bid to properly mark the 20th anniversary of the final Concorde flight to depart the Northern hub, Manchester Airport has announced its plans to host a special celebration under the wings of the the iconic aircraft at its Runway Visitor Park.
Tickets are now on sale, and available for the general public to get their hands on.
The supersonic aircraft famously caused a stir when it first flew into Manchester all the way back in 1980, with thousands of people lining the streets and parking up on the roads around the airport to catch a glimpse.
Its final commercial flight from Manchester took place on 22 October 2003, and then, just one week later, the flagship aircraft in British Airways’ Concorde fleet touched down in our city for one last time.
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The aircraft was flown in to be put on display at the airport, where it remains to this day.
A lavish black-tie banquet is happening beneath the wings of a Concorde plane in Manchester / Credit: Runway Visitor Park
The black-tie event to celebrate the plane’s 20th year will start with a drinks reception in the Concorde hangar, before guests are seated for a four-course meal, Manchester Airport explains.
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Soprano vocalist Gemma Ashley will provide the musical entertainment on the night, while diners will also get to hear exclusive accounts from former Concorde pilot, Captain John Tye, as well as Concorde’s most frequent flyer, Fred Finn, before getting the chance to board the aircraft themselves for a tour.
The evening will then be rounded-off with a demonstration of Concorde’s famous nose droop.
“Concorde is an iconic aircraft,” Runway Visitor Park’s Manager, Paul Emblow, commented as the anniversary event was announced.
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The flagship aircraft touched down in our city for one last time in October 2003 / Credit: Manchester Airport
“Its story is intrinsically linked with the story of Manchester Airport, and of the Runway Visitor Park, as for most of its years of active service, Concorde was a regular visitor to Manchester and its iconic silhouette even appeared in the airport’s former logo, such was its resonance with passengers and planespotters.
“The Runway Visitor Park now provides a permanent home for British Airways’ flagship G-BOAC, which transported members of the Royal Family among other famous faces.
“It’s the perfect setting to celebrate the anniversary of its retirement.”
The exclusive Concorde 20th Anniversary Gala event takes place on Friday 27 October from 6pm, with tickets now on sale and setting you back £90 per person.
Hear stories from Coronation Street legends in all-new live shows
Thomas Melia
Members of Coronation Street are spilling all the secrets of the cobbles to live audiences with a brand new series of Q&A sessions across the country, including right here in its hometown of Manchester, of course.
Although Weatherfield may only be up the road (hypothetically), it’s not every day you’re face to face with TV soap royalty, but this newly announced live show makes the impossible, possible.
Soap lovers will be able to find out all the tales, trials and tribulations cast members have had on set and swap the comfort of their own homes for a front-row seat at the theatre.
This night is perfect for Corrie lovers, whether you’ve been following the show since its humble beginnings in 1960 or tagged on later when it became a face of British TV culture, everyone is welcome.
The event is titled, simply, ‘An Audience with Coronation Street‘ and will feature five cast members as well as one surprise ‘Corrie legend’ who will all vary depending on each show.
So far eight names have been released and this includes some of the soap’s many famous faces, Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt), Simon Gregson (Steve McDonald) and Samia Longchambon (Maria Connor).
There’s room for fresher talent too as Jodie Prenger is attending after only joining the cobbles in 2022 as Glenda Shuttleworth.
Be it the long-standing favourites or the new faces you want to know more about, there’s something for everyone in what is a first for ITV’s long-standing and multi-award-winning continuing drama.
Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt)Simon Gregson (Steve McDonald)Samia Longchambon (Maria Connor)Credit: Publicity Pictures (via Supplied)
Other stars you might also get to see at your show are Patti Clare (Mary Taylor), Jimmi Harkishin (Dev Alahan), Andrew Whyment (Kirk Sutherland) and Rob Mallard (Daniel Osbourne).
The all-new Coronation Street shows, interview and Q&A series are kicking off in London with shows set for Sheffield, Glasgow and obviously here in 0161.
Of course, keeping these Coronation Street stars in check will be no easy feat and that’s why these shows will be hosted by the self-proclaimed ‘Soap Queen of This Morning‘, Sharon Marshall.
New monthly artisan markets to return to popular site in Levenshulme
Emily Sergeant
New day and night artisan markets are set to take over the site of the popular former Levenshulme Market this spring.
Manchester City Council has collaborated with Independent Street, known for its successful events around the North West, to bring a new market offering to the Manchester suburb – with freshly-baked produce, independent food stalls, and unique artisan products.
The new market, aptly called The Levy Artisan Market, will take place during the day on the second Sunday of every month.
There’ll also be an exciting night market on the last Friday of every month.
The Levy Artisan Market is set to showcase Manchester’s array of artisans and creators, while also helping to drive footfall into the vibrant area of Levenshulme and its already-established shops, cafes, restaurants, and independents.
The monthly Sunday markets will offer lots of family-focused events, including live entertainment, children’s workshops, food tastings, and cultural celebrations.
The monthly Friday night markets, on the other hand, will offer a newly-designed food court area with some of the best street food in town, as well as live music and a large seating area for people to kick back, relax, and welcome in the weekend.
Local councillors have collaborated with Manchester City Council to bring markets back to Levenshulme, after they have been deeply missed by both residents and visitors in recent years.
The Council hopes the new artisan market ‘fosters a strong sense of belonging’, by encouraging people to shop locally, connect with their neighbours, and celebrate the diversity of Levenshulme.
New monthly artisan markets are returning to a popular site in Levenshulme this spring / Credit: MCC
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome back Levy’s loyal customers and introduce the new Levy Artisan Market to a new generation of visitors,” commented Lisa Cowley, who is the Director of Independent Street.
“With a focus on community, sustainability, and high-quality, local produce, we hope to make Levy Artisan Market the heart of Manchester for years to come.”
Emily Sergeant -
5th September 2023 
