The weather might not have been great, but the rain (mostly) held off and the crowds were out in their usual force for the passing of another Manchester parade.

Despite its earlier than advertised start, the spot we'd picked to watch from meant there was still a lot of hanging around - and by the time the floats got to us, most of their giveaways (especially the chocolate ones) had gone. We really should pick a spot earlier in the parade route next year!

The usual enthusiasm and energy abounded, with the sun even poking its way through the clouds a few times. Following the crowds who walked behind the last float, the Essential truck finally found its way to us a good fifteen minutes later... we haven't discovered the reason why, but at least they made it in the end!