Public homecoming for Manchester's Olympic heroes

Manchester's Olympic sporting heroes will be honoured at a special celebration in the city next month.

All the athletes who trained in Manchester in preparation for Beijing will be treated to a public homecoming in Albert Square.

Among them will be the medal-winning cyclists who honed their skills at Manchester Velodrome, including triple gold winner Chris Hoy (pictured).

Paralympians are also set to receive a rapturous reception at the ceremony on Tuesday, October 7, at 6pm.

Councillor Mike Amesbury, executive member for culture and leisure at Manchester City Council, said: "We are planning a public event to enable the people of Manchester to be involved in the celebrations and to congratulate the collective achievements of all the team.

"It gives everyone the chance to see their favourite sporting stars who have made their mark on world sport this summer and to welcome them home in a fitting manner."

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council said: "This celebration is about pride in all our athletes and the phenomenal achievement of all those who participated in the Olympics and Paralympics.

"It's also in recognition of everyone involved in the outstanding success we enjoyed in Beijing - from coaches to physiotherapists - and the part they played in helping Great Britain to glory. I'm tremendously proud of all that Manchester has achieved and the way in which the city has been represented."