FESTIVE FUN STARTS HERE

SIZZLING sausages, piping hot mulled wine and hot chocolates with mighty whipped cream peaks can only mean one thing - the Manchester Christmas Markets are back.

- JENNA CAMPBELL 

This year marks a special year for the UK's capital of Christmas as it was 25 Christmases ago that Manchester's first-ever Christmas market took place in 1998.

A quarter of a century later the markets continue to attract Mancunians and visitors alike to the city in their thousands to fill up on the fantastic festive treats on offer.

Blessed by the weather gods, the sun poured down on Piccadilly Gardens - or 'Winter Gardens' as they're known at this time of year - yesterday morning as the 'world-beating' markets officially kicked off. This year, visitors to the renowned markets can explore nine zones and over 225 stalls, selling food, drink, crafts and seasonal gifts.

The landmark wooden ski chalet market stalls will not only take over Piccadilly Gardens, but several areas across the city centre including Market Street, Cathedral Gardens, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, St Ann's Square, Exchange Square, The Corn Exchange and King Street.

Speaking at the launch, Coun Pat Karney, Manchester council's Christmas spokesperson, said: "And they're back! Our world-famous Christmas Markets are now open and Christmas has officially begun in Santa's favourite city.