Annual UK Light Rail Conference

In May 2011 the Light Rapid Transport Forum held their 6th Annual UK Light Rail Conference at Manchester Conference Centre and Days Hotel.

The UK Light Rail Conference is the largest UK gathering of light rail professionals and the two day conference brought together 120 leading industry figures from six countries to examine all aspects of light rail and tramway operation and development, as well as providing the opportunity to share best practice from UK and overseas centres of excellence.

Simon Johnston, Director of Mainspring and organiser of the Conference said:

"Visit Manchester offered us fantastic support with the 6th Annual UK Light Rail Conference from start to finish. Big conferences like ours, that feature delegates and exhibitors from across Europe, are all about the attention to detail that really makes guests feel welcome.

Visit Manchester offered invaluable local input, helping manage larger functions like accommodation bookings and at a more micro level by offering things like maps of the city for delegates and advice on the best places to eat that we could then pass on.

Manchester is a vibrant, exciting city and we certainly look forward to hosting events there again - and definitely working closely with Visit Manchester."

British Lymphology Society

In October 2010 the British Lymphology Society held their Annual Conference in Manchester for the first time in 25 years against a backdrop of recession and delegate number decline.

With the support provided by Visit Manchester in attracting new delegates and the easy access from not only the UK but internationally as well. The 2010 BLS Conference turned into their most well attended event in 25 years.

The British Lymphology Society (BLS) is a leading medical charity promoting professional care for Lymphoedema sufferers. 2010 was the Society's Silver Jubilee year and its Annual Conference is was held in Manchester.

David Combie, the charity's Communications Officer and Conference Organiser says:- "Using Manchester Town Hall as a venue with accommodation at the Midland Hotel has provided a massive boost to our flagship event. We have seen a 110% increase in the number of exhibiting companies; and a 60% increase in delegates.  Manchester has proved a massive draw for sponsors and delegates and BLS has the largest and most prestigious Conference in its 25 year history.  Using Manchester as a venue is probably the best decision we have ever taken."

What is Lymphoedema? Lymphoedema is a chronic and permanent swelling which can affect any area of the body, most commonly the limbs. It can impact upon a person's body image, self-esteem and cause not only physical but emotional distress as well.