Ferguson leads Manchester United victory parade

TENS of thousands of Manchester United fans lined the streets last night to celebrate their team’s 20th English league title and catch a last glimpse of manager Sir Alex Ferguson before he retires.

Players appear on the open topped bus outside Old Trafford during the Manchester United Premier League winners parade. Picture: Getty

Jubilant United players were spending a second day with the Premier League trophy after lifting it on Sunday following the 2-1 win over Swansea – Sir Alex’s final game at Old Trafford after nearly 27 years in charge.

A custom-designed, open-top bus bearing a “Champions 2013” logo set off from the stadium under overcast skies and made its way through the streets in a parade lasting more than an hour before arriving at Albert Square in the centre of the city.

“Yesterday was a day I’ll never forget,” said Ferguson. “All my family will never forget. On behalf of all my players, thanks for all your support.”

Hours before the parade began, the city centre was awash in red with fans draped in United flags singing songs and blaring hooters.