The report, How can cities thrive in the changing economy?, was carried out by The Work Foundation. It shows that growth in Preston and Manchester is increasing in momentum, thanks to significant economic gains in the past ten years.

Indeed, the ability to act as a magnet for talented workers and large companies - such as the Bank of New York in Manchester - has ensured the post-industrial survival and, in come cases, the runaway success of some northern cities.

According to the report, citizens in the city of Manchester contribute an average of £18,407 to the value of the national economy, while individuals in Preston contribute an even higher figure of £18,549.

Across England as a whole, the figure is £18,267.

"Some big cities of the UK have clearly bounced back from the decline of manufacturing and have galvanised themselves to be productive, thriving, 21st century places," explained Alexandra Jones, associate director of The Work Foundation.

The findings come days after a report entitled State of the City praised Manchester's economic success and the fact that it has driven up employment rates in recent years and reversed the population decline of the 1990s.