Christmas 2020 remain uncertain, the countdown to December 25 is already poles apart from what we're used to. National lockdown restrictions have closed restaurants and bars meaning annual meet ups with old friends won't be happening anytime soon, and many families will be struggling to get by this year, or coping with ill health.
With non-essential shops shut, Christmas shopping down a bustling Market Street or in the Arndale or Trafford Centre is also off the cards.
But, for many, one of the biggest blows of the festive lead up has been the announcement that Manchester's Christmas Markets will be closed this year.
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