YORK tourism chiefs say a new direct flight from the north of England to China will deliver a major boost to the city.

Hainan Airlines will start flying from Manchester Airport to Beijing from June 10. It is the first-ever direct service from the north to mainland China.

Make It York has praised the new service and believe it is a massive benefit to the region and will unlock new opportunities.

Kate McMullen, head of tourism, said: “This first-ever direct flight to and from Beijing marks a milestone for our relations with China. As a major international gateway into the north of England, a direct flight from Manchester opens up a world of new opportunities for York, Yorkshire and the north of England, both for tourism and for investment generally.”