Altrincham is no longer one of the best places to live in the North West, according to the Sunday Times, but another town in the area is in the mix for the first time.

Sale is one of six runners up recognised in a list released today (March 24) thanks to its state schools, transport connections and town centre.

In 2020, Altrincham was crowned the best place to live in the UK and the next year, it was crowned the best place to live in the North West.

It was one of six runners up last year, but is now nowhere to be seen in the list, with the judges suggesting Sale is 'emerging from its shadow'.

READ MORE: Sale Foodhall to close in less than two weeks.

They said: "A welcoming and well-connected Greater Manchester location, Sale is emerging from the shadow of Altrincham thanks to its excellent reputation for state schools, tram connections, and the creation of a new town centre hub in Stanley Square with cafes, restaurants and independent shops."

The best place to live in the North West is Liverpool, according to the Sunday Times.

The other runners up are Manchester, Penrith, Rawtenstall, Stockport and Tarporley.

Overall the best place to live in the UK is the town of Wadhurst, Sussex, the Sunday Times said.

Its list is available on its website from today (March 24) and in its newspaper over the weekend.

Helen Davies, the editor of Best Places To Live, said: "When times are tough, where we live matters more than ever – attractive surroundings, good neighbours and a comfortable home are the best defences when the stresses of modern life seem overwhelming. 

"This is a celebration of cities, towns and villages that are a fantastic place to live from Orkney to Felixstowe, Chew Valley to Manchester city centre. Whether you’re downsizing, trading up or getting onto the property ladder, there will be somewhere to suit you."

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.