'People say the only thing Manchester doesn't have is a beach - well, not for long!'

Manchester Day is set to return later this month with a beach holiday theme to fit. The famous event returns on July 29, this year titled 'Manchester Day on Holiday' with Deansgate set to be transformed into our very own seaside.

It was confirmed earlier this year by the MEN that the annual Manchester Day parade would no longer be taking place from this year.

Instead, Deansgate will host a range of events from 9am to 6pm on the day and will be open to all. The street will be kitted out with a traditional helter skelter as well as sand sculptures. There will also be a host of live performances from a number of local artists.

Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features.

Manchester City Council is working in conjunction with creative partner, Walk the Plank, to give Manchester Day a twist. Instead of the parade people will be able to take part in a number of activities, entertainment, music and dance across the city centre.

Councillor Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, said: "Mark the day in your calendars and get ready for Manchester to be the number one holiday destination on the 29th July. People always say that the only thing Manchester doesn't have is a beach, well, not for long!

"The seaside in the city centre is one of the many new and unexpected events that we will be organising this year. We can’t wait to reveal what else we’ve got planned, keep your eyes peeled!"

For more information on the festivities visit: www.manchester.gov.uk/manchesterday.

For more of today's top stories click here.