STARS of Coronation Street Jack Duckworth (Bill Tarmey) and hairdresser Maria Sutherland (Samia Smith) flew into Belfast recently to help celebrate the launch of flybe's new Belfast to Manchester route.

The new route takes the total number of direct flybe flights from Belfast City Airport to 12, keeping flybe the largest scheduled airline at the airport.

Flybe, General Manager - Market Development, Andrea Hayes commented: "It is wonderful to have Samia and Bill over to launch this new route as Manchester based Coronation Street is one of Northern Ireland's favourite soaps.

"Manchester is also one of Britain's largest and most exciting cities. It is definitely a landmark city with something for everyone including outstanding shops such as Harvey Nichols and of course for the many football fans. With the Peak District just a short distance away it is also an excellent leisure destination. "

The Belfast City to Manchester service began on January 9, 2006. Initially offering three daily flights, a fourth will be added in February. One-way fares, including taxes and charges, start from £21.99.

Andrea continued: "This new route shows us responding to consumer demand and further expanding our already comprehensive route network, building on our domestic successes and facilitating regional travel.

"We are committed to offering a first rate, convenient regional airline service, and by aggressively increasing our operations in Belfast City and the North West, we are successfully marrying regional travel with great value and choice."