The massive helter skelter you mustn't miss this Manchester Day

You don't often see Deansgate without cars driving along it, but for Manchester Day this year, a whole section of the busy thoroughfare was closed off as a large beach took over.

As well as bucket and spades, sandcastle sculptures and a live music stage, crowds descended on the massive helter skelter in the middle of Deansgate.

The red and white striped slide was one of Manchester Day's main events, with a queue snaking down the street towards the Cathedral and Arndale.

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Both adults and children patiently queued for their turn on the ride, a few looking slightly concerned once at the top.

But with a bit of encouragement, they were off, quickly asking if they could do it all again.

Bringing the holiday vibes to the city centre, Manchester Day got underway this afternoon under glorious sunshine as street performers, brass bands and West African, Lithuanian and Bhangra dancers took to the streets for one big celebration.

Heading down New Cathedral Street, stilt walkers navigate their way around packed out streets, accompanied by the sounds of a brass band, while over at St Mary's Gate, a group of West African dancers take over the road, mesmerizing crowds as they gather around.

Along New Cathedral Street an immersive zoo has taken over, with a hippo with toothache, a sleeping lion and an orangutan who can't stop eating bananas. Meanwhile, on St Ann's Square, a number of street food traders have popped up including Carmello of Didsbury and Grandpa Greene's, dishing out ice creams for those who have pulled up a deck chair to watch opera classics, jazz piano and samba dancing.

Councillor Pat Karney, chair of the