I've lived in and around Manchester as both man and boy. I was a student here, worked here as a museum researcher and tour guide and enjoyed being part of the city both penniless and with a half-decent suit on my back. Now a well-travelled freelance journalist, I'm still fiercely loyal to the place and wouldn't want, or need, to live in any other city in the UK.

What's your favourite thing to do on a Sunday?

It's habitual: to the Art of Tea with a huge bundle of newspapers for some great fair trade tea & coffee and a gander at the bookshop and art on display in this East Didsbury favourite. Then a walk through Fletcher Moss Gardens and a bus into town, meet friends and take in a little independent cinema at The Cornerhouse.

How would you spend a long weekend?

Manchester is ideal for both The Lake District and Peak District, but I prefer my rural scenery uncluttered by tourist traffic and The Ribble Valley always hits the spot. I'll meander along the narrow lanes, perhaps take an amble over the history soaked Pendle Hill before calling at the Inn at Whitewell for some rewarding fine local food and a pint of that month's special local ale.

What's your idea of a good night out?

Though it can be a little ‘up itself’ an aperitif at The Deansgate Hilton’s Cloud 23 can be rewarding for its cloud busting city views, then to Little Yang Sings in China Town for some splendid Chinese fare (booking recommended). If it’s not a “school night” perhaps a cab with be hailed for a gig and groovy sounds at FAC251, opened by one of the people that brought us The Hacienda.

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