'Increased police presence' for Manchester Day and Take That gig on Sunday

Huge crowds are expected for the Manchester Day parade Credit: Manchester City Council

Police say armed officers will be on the streets of Manchester today as around 60,000 people are expected to descend on the city centre for the Manchester Day parade.

The event coincides with a Take That concert which takes place tonight at the Etihad stadium.

Armed officers will be deployed to the city centre, Etihad stadium and Metrolink stations across the city.

There will also be increased security checks at the Etihad stadium. Concertgoers are advised not to bring bags and to arrive early to allow plenty of time to get in.

As part of the Manchester Day parade, a special tribute will be paid to the victims of the arena bombing on May 22.

The tribute will be an additional element at the front of the parade, and will also honour the efforts of the emergency services in the days after the attack.

  • Anyone who sees anything suspicious is asked to call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline - 0800 789 321 - or in an emergency 999.