Tributes paid to former nightclub owner credited with starting Manchester's Gay Village

Tributes have been paid to a former nightclub owner credited withstarting Manchester's Gay Village who has died after testing positivefor coronavirus.

Glenn Stevens passed away on Monday [March 30], just two days afterdeveloping Covid-19 symptoms while being treated in hospital followinga stroke.

Nicknamed 'Mr Manchester', the 74-year-old was a popular figure in thecity's Gay Village, having owned a number of pubs and clubs, includingNew York New York.

Mr Stevens's brother, David Green, said: "There were no clubs around there back then, so he started the Gay Village. It was nothing like it is today."

"He was openly gay himself, but the scene was all hidden away beforethen. New York New York changed that big time."

Mr Stevens eventually handed over the reins about 15 years ago, but his legacy still endures.

Indeed, New York New York still exists today and remains a popularnightspot for revellers.

Mr Green added: "Glenn was warm, loving and caring."