Pro-European campaigners descended on Manchester on Sunday for a day of action against the government’s plans to exit the European Union, as the Conservative Party conference got underway.

Sir Vince Cable MP and Stephen Dorrell, former Conservative Cabinet Minister, were amongst those who spoke at the crowdfunded Rally for Europe, hosted by Manchester for Europe in Cathedral Gardens, and supported by Britain for Europe, The European Movement, Scientists for EU, Healthier IN the EU and Open Britain.

The pro-European rally provided a platform for MPs and other figures to voice their convictions during the Conservative Party conference, where they might not have been able to speak out otherwise.  It was organised as a positive opportunity to emphasise that democracy didn’t end on 23 June 2016 and is an ongoing, participative process; show just how much backing there is in the country for a close relationship between Britain and Europe; and to celebrate the huge benefits of EU membership, which we don’t want to lose.

A total of over £52,000 was raised in a short space of time via crowdfunding for the rally and ongoing campaign, showing the extent of support.

Speakers at the rally also included: Richard Corbett MEP; Jolyon Maugham QC; Dr Erinma Bell MBE; Julie Ward MEP; Seb Dance MEP; and Mike Galsworthy, Scientists for EU; with Mancunian, Terry Christian, as MC. There was live music by Badly Drawn Boy and a number of EU themed street stalls, including our own European Movement stand.

Click here to see photos and read statements from participants.