Year of the Ram....

Chinese New Year is a bit like Easter in that it doesn't stay in one place but wanders about the occidental calendar affected by the phase of the moon and the like. This year it's the Year of the Ram. After London and Paris, Manchester has the largest Chinese community in Europe. And it's set to grow as the city forges commercial links to China. Direct flights to Chinese cities start this year and Chinese money is bankrolling the massive Airport City development. Manchester is decorating itself in bright red Chinese lanterns in preparation for the celebrations later in the month. Here they are in Albert Square in front of the Town Hall brightening an otherwise dull February day.