In pictures: Manchester Pride

1 of 8 Manchester Pride brought a dash of colour to the city's streets

2 of 8 Whistles and pounding dance music filled the air as the parade began

3 of 8 Gay and lesbian police officers proudly joined the parade

4 of 8 Flying the flag with pride: A carnival atmosphere descended on the city

5 of 8 Manchester's streets were thronged with up to 250,000 people

6 of 8 Clothes are not always essential at Manchester Pride

7 of 8 Cleanliness is next to Godliness... the big and hairy float has a wash

8 of 8 Free artist's workshops were available to help participants with their costume design