Holidaymakers in the east Midlands will be able to take advantage of new services to Cologne in Germany from next year.

UK airline bmi has announced that it will be launching the new flights from East Midlands Airport on February 11th 2008, flying six times a week to the metropolis under the bmi regional name.

Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and boasts a host of historical attractions, including the impressive Cologne Cathedral, numerous churches and towers, and examples of Roman and medieval monuments and structures.

"We are delighted to be launching services between East Midlands Airport and Cologne and we expect the route to be popular with both business and leisure travellers," commented Peter Kenworthy, commercial director of bmi regional.

Cologne is also home to a number of Christmas markets during the festive period, including a floating market on the River Rhine.

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