World Tourist Attractions (WTA) has opened a 55m observation wheel in the centre of Manchester.

Located in Exchange Square, the wheel offers guests views of local landmarks including Old Trafford football ground.

Supplied by Ronald Bussink Professional Rides of Switzerland, the wheel offers 42 gondolas, including a VIP car with a glass floor.

The attraction is set to remain in Manchester until at least April next year.

WTA was founded by Jonathan Shipley and Elliot Hall in 2002 and they sited their first temporary observation wheel in Birmingham for the 2003 Christmas period – the wheel had previously been used in Paris for the city’s millennium celebrations.

“As interest in observation wheels continues around the world, WTA has found a niche in the market by offering temporary attractions which avoid the lengthier planning processes associated with fixed structures,” said Hall.

The company has plans to roll out observation wheels to at least three further cities.

The Manchester wheel was erected in just 10 days. Details: www.worldtouristattractions.co.uk