Anti-austerity activists protest against Tory conference in Manchester

Thousands of people gather for march past conference venues after 'unwelcoming committee' greeted delegates at Piccadilly station

Thousands of protesters are gathering for a march past the Conservative party conference venue in Manchester, in an anti-austerity demonstration organised by the TUC and the People's Assembly.

Singer Billy Bragg warmed up the growing crowd with a set on stage, changing the lyrics to his best-known songs to add topical references such as "take the money from Trident and spend it on the NHS" and "these Tory cuts will get me the sack".

Ahead of Tory Conference I urge all activists to focus on policy & to take no part in personal attacks https://t.co/8UaTNpBgsr