Two imposters dressed in Team GB tracksuits and wearing fake plastic medals managed to defy heavy security at the Manchester 'Heroes' Parade' and gain access to a float full of Olympic champions.

The two men climbed aboard the float carrying the gold medal-winning women's hockey team and modern pentathlon athletes at the start of the parade, near the Museum of Industry and Science in the city centre.

The parade floats were behind barriers with entry points manned by security personnel and police.

While media and other officials were required to wear and show accreditation, it seems the two slipped past security.

Challenged by Sky News as to why they were on the float, they initially claimed to be part of the fencing team before admitting they had "blagged" their way on.


One of the young men said: "We got the medals and we just thought, you know, we'd give it a go.

"We actually got ushered on, it was actually completely against our will.

"We blag something every now and then but we're going to get off at the next stop."

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They then left the float when asked, and while the modern pentathlon team were aware they were there, they were more amused at their efforts than threatened.

The security breach was light-hearted and not threatening, but it will be of concern to the British Olympic Association, Greater Manchester Police and Manchester City Council.

The parade has been the subject of months of planning, with security a priority and a VIP presence including Prime Minister Theresa May.

A spokesman for the BOA said: "We are aware of the matter, and are disappointed anyone would want to detract from the athletes' celebration. This did not spoil anyone's enjoyment of a wonderful event."

Later today the Olympic and Paralympic medallists will take part in a second celebration in London's Trafalgar Square before marking their achievements during a reception at Buckingham Palace with the Queen.