A Manchester shopping centre has lifted its long-standing dog ban as award-winning Betty & Butch gets set to open a new dog store in the indoor market.

General manager Tony Martin said Afflecks Palace is finally lifting its ban after he noticed more shoppers browsing with their pooches in the city centre.

“For me, obviously, being based in the city centre and working in the city centre it is something I am noticing, more and more people, out with their dogs.

“At first it was a bit like seeing a dog in a playground - it does seem bizarre.

“People come into Afflecks with their guide dogs, got us asking why don’t we allow all dogs?

“As a dog owner myself I appreciate more places becoming dog friendly.”

Betty & Butch will be the first dedicated dog shop in the city centre for owners to purchase food and accessories.

Co-owner Angel Moore said he was delighted to be able to bring his 10 month old pooch Nuala to see the new business.

“It is brilliant, I am really happy about it, hopefully there will be lots of dogs.”