Man Utd: Thousands Line Streets For Victory Parade

A victory parade to celebrate Manchester United's 20th Premier League title and mark the retirement of outgoing manager Sir Alex Ferguson drew thousands of people onto the streets this evening. The parade began with a send-off at Old Trafford on the forecourt area outside the East Stand before the players, manager and coaching staff boarded an open top bus which then proceeded into Manchester City centre, along Deansgate, before eventually arriving at Albert Square to the deafening cheers of an army of adoring fans. Speaking from the bus, Ferguson thanked the throngs of fans that had gathered for their continued support over the years and the reception he received ahead of, and after his final home game of the season at the weekend during the 2-1 victory over Swansea City. The veteran Scotsman commented that it was "a day I will never forget - it was wonderful".

"It was something all my family enjoyed and the grandkids will never forget it."

Fans lined every inch of the parade route from Sir Matt Busby Way to Deansgate with police refusing entry to any more spectators by 7PM after the plaza and the surrounding streets swelled to capacity. All of the major roads in Manchester were put on lock down while several bus routes were diverted. Fans desperate to get a good look at the action as the team bus approached Albert Square could be seen climbing lampposts, trees, statues and even bus top roofs. Many had travelled from far and wide to attend the parade and send Ferguson off in style with those in attendance from as close to home as the Stretford End to as far afield as South Africa, and the atmosphere was electric. Some ignited flares and filled the cool evening air with a tint of that ever famous red while others regaled their fellow fans with stadium terrace chants. And those in attendance were in full cry when defender Rio Ferdinand took to the stage to chant songs about his fellow teammates. During the celebrations in Albert Square, Manchester band The Courteeners played to add to the already jovial atmosphere. And then came the news that Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini had been sacked, and the party was in full swing.