After a nightmare few weeks for the arena and gig-goers Manchester’s Co-op Live has finally opened its doors.
In a happy accident, following all the cancellations and postponements it was left to Guy Garvey and Bury boys Elbow to open up the new £365million venue next door to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium. They did it in style with a right Manc love in finally getting things up and running for a venue that had been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons.
Our gallery has some of the best pictures from the night, and gives you an idea of what you’ll find inside - from grab and go food outlets to bars serving £7.95 pints.

9. Elbow Co-op Live
It was a real homecoming triumph for Elbow. Picture: Peter Neill – ShootTheSound | Peter Neill – ShootTheSound Photo: Peter Neill – ShootTheSound

10. Elbow Co-op Live
The stunning mirrorball that accompanied the song of the same name | Peter Neill – ShootTheSound Photo: Peter Neill – ShootTheSound

11. Elbow Co-op Live
The view from the Manchester World seat on the front row of the second tier. | Manchester World Photo: Manchester World