Man United fans brave rain for parade

Sir Alex Ferguson and his team, wreathed in smiles and waving to hordes of fans, revelled in the atmosphere as fans cheered and applauded their open-top bus as it made its way through Manchester city centre, teeming with supporters – and heavy rain.

With the Premier League trophy held aloft the bus bore the number 19 – the record number of times they have now won the league, beating the previous record of bitter rivals Liverpool.

And despite the disappointment of defeat to Barcelona in Saturday’s Champions League final and typical Manchester weather of steady drizzle, the Red Army turned out in force to welcome the team home.

Bedraggled, rain-sodden fans waved United flags and scarves, sang and cheered as the bus set off from Manchester Cathedral to the Queen song We Are The Champions.

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Fathers held young sons on their shoulders as supporters clamoured five-deep along Deansgate to catch a glimpse of the players.

Youngsters added to the cacophony of sound, blowing vuvuzelas as Rio Ferdinand led the players, microphone in hand, singing football songs blasting from loudspeakers on the bus.

“Glory, Glory Man United,” rang out, along with, “Are You Watching Merseyside?”