Manchester to host Olympic-Paralympic homecoming parade

A homecoming parade for Britain's triumphant Olympic and Paralympic stars is set to go ahead in Manchester, it has been announced.

Prime Minister Theresa May said Manchester would host the homecoming event, while a further celebration would also be held in London.

So far, Team GB has secured 24 gold medals at the Games in Rio - bringing the medal haul to 58 in what has been a highly successful campaign.

"It will be a celebration fit for heroes - and rightly so, because that is exactly what they are", Mrs May said on announcing the event.

The decision to host the homecoming in Manchester comes after calls for it to be held outside of the capital to reflect contributions made by athletes from across the UK.

London hosted the homecoming parade for Olympians and Paralympians in 2004, 2008 and 2012.

Leicester and Leeds had both petitioned to be the host of the homecoming parade this time around.

Mrs May said Team GB had shown the world at the Olympics "what we're made of".

"They haven't just made history; by showing just how far talent and hard work can take you, they have inspired the next generation", she said.

"They have also shown the importance of supporting elite sport and that is something this Government remains wholly committed to".

Leeds City Council has also said it will host a homecoming event for its Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Judith Blake, leader of the council, said: Leeds has so much to celebrate, with such a cross section of medallists in gymnastics, triathlon, cycling, diving, rowing and still Nicola Adams in the boxing to come.

"We will absolutely make sure the Leeds event gives the athletes the recognition and appreciation they so fully deserve for their wonderful achievements."