Biased though I may be, I think that there is always something special happening in this great city of ours. Recently though, an extraordinary event has transformed our Northern Quarter streets and put Manchester firmly on the side of championing the oppressed.

During May 2016, nine world famous street artists were invited to take part in the Cities Of Hope festival, aimed to heighten the city's social conscience through masterpieces of urban art. Supported by local artists the event has added some stunning and important work to the existing street gallery. All proceeds from the festival were donated to local charities that support the needs of the vulnerable, disadvantaged and helpless in our society. These enduring beacons of hope have enriched the Northern Quarter's identity for individual creativity and expression. They are a visual projection to issues that are too often ignored or misunderstood.

Street art reflects culture, traditions, heritage and social issues. It has reached corners of every major city in the world. With these latest murals, Manchester now sits alongside the global capitals of street art. I am in awe of the imagination, talent and originality of these artists and I thank them and the organisers for further enriching our city's creative culture.

I have been inspired to create my own small tribute to this spectacular event.