It's one of the city's biggest weekends of the summer - but it feels like autumn has started early. Manchester has woken up to a battering by the elements after Storm Lilian arrived early this morning (August 23). Trees have blown down, trams have been suspended and drivers faced mayhem as strong winds arrived earlier today.

A yellow Met Office weather warning for wind was in force until 11am this morning. Lilian's timing hasn't been ideal either - bringing dramatic weather to the city just as Manchester Pride is about to begin. Tens of thousands are expected to flock to the city over the bank holiday weekend for the annual celebration of LGBTQ+ life - as a major food and drink festival in Bolton was forced to cancel today's events due to the weather.

READ MORE: What time does Manchester Pride 2024 start and finish? Open and closing timings for Gay Village Party, Pride parade and vigil The Village will be packed out with revellers meeting friends, visiting bars and dancing in the streets. Gay Village Party ticketholders will be able to catch live performances from the likes of Sugababes, Rita Ora, Danny Beard, Loreen, Katy B and Jessie J. Thousands of people will also line the streets of the city centre for the annual Manchester Pride parade on Saturday afternoon - before the weekend comes to an end with the poignant candlelit vigil on Monday night.

With the party about to begin, and dazzling outfits being prepared, thousands of people will be keeping a close eye on the weath.