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Imposters with fake medals gatecrash Olympic parade

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Who were the two imposters who tricked their way onto a Team GB bus during yesterday's Olympic parade?

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

Imposters with fake medals get on Olympic float during Manchester Parade
Image: The self-confessed blaggers told Sky News they were ushered on the bus 'against their own will'

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.

Imposters with fake medals get on Olympic float during Manchester Parade
Image: The two imposters were on the same bus as the GB modern pentathlon team

"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.

Jessica Ennis-Hill of Great Britain takes a selfie during a Rio 2016 Victory Parade
Image: Jessica Ennis-Hill made her first public appearance since announcing her retirement during the parade

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. 

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