Christmas

Matrjoshka: Russian dolls in Albert Sq

A Russian Christmas

• Name: Nikolay Kochetov (51)
• From: Moscow
• Stall: Kochetov
• Sells: Matrjoshka (Russian Dolls)
• Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00

Why did you decide to join the markets this year?

Muscovite: Nikolay Kochetov

"The organisation visited one of my stands in Europe and invited me to come to Manchester. I said yes and I arrived three days ago! I flew to London from Moscow and then travelled to Manchester."

It’s your first visit to Manchester, what do you think so far?

"Manchester is a very wonderful town. I have never been to England before and I like it in Manchester. It is very clean and the people are very friendly. There are very good people here."

Tell me about your stand…

"I am selling Russian handicrafts, which are made by people from villages in Russia. About 13-14 people have made the gifts on this stand. The speciality is the Russian Dolls, which are all hand made. I am also selling painted eggs and shawls."

Have you had a chance to have a look round the other stands yet?

"Not yet, no. I am here on my own, so it is quite difficult but I will try and have a look soon. It all looks very good."

Will you be trying out the nightlife in Manchester before you go home?

"Maybe. But I have only been here three days so I will wait and see!"