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Spectators lining the parade route from the Irish World Heritage Centre in Cheetham were no less enthusiastic but thinner on the ground than in previous years as they waved their tricolour flags.

There were fewer floats this year and smaller numbers of people walking in the parade with nowhere near the variety of bands and dance troupes that usually takes part.

Despite the subdued atmosphere, the rain held off and the stall holders enjoyed a good day's trade.

The parade is the first event in a week-long celebration of the heritage and culture of Manchester's Irish community. It is the biggest Irish Festival in mainland Britain made up of more than 80 events.

Irish President Mary McAleese launched the festival in February when she made her first visit to Manchester since taking office.

Mrs McAleese was the latest in a long line of distinguished guests to launch the festival including former President Mary Robinson, former Northern Ireland Minister Mo Mowlam and former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.

Manchester councillor Pat Karney invited everyone to take part in the festival.

He said: "Our festival is open to everybody in the city. Manchester leads the country once again in staging the best Irish festival."