Manchester United homecoming parade

Assistant Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: "Early last week GMP was approached regarding proposals to celebrate Manchester United's success this season. It is important to point out that no homecoming parade or event has ever been planned for Thursday 22 May 2008.

"Manchester and Trafford councils were involved in these discussions. As a result of these outline proposals a review was carried out to assess the viability of an event and it was decided that a parade could not take place today, Thursday 22 May, because of the serious risk to public safety and major disruption to the rest of the community on what is a normal working and shopping day.

"GMP's primary concern is the safety of the people of Greater Manchester and the fans of the club. It is right and fitting that MUFC's fans should have the chance to celebrate the club's success this year in the event of last night's win, but they should do this in safety. The last major homecoming event was in 1999 where there were serious safety issues raised regarding the risks of crowd crush. Manchester United is the biggest football club in the world and we believe any event would attract more people than in 1999.

"We have agreed to work towards an event in the summer where those celebrations could take place in safety. We remain committed to work with partners towards a suitable and safe celebration for all fans."