THOUSANDS of people braved driving rain to line the streets for the Royals Championship victory parade today (Sunday).

Fans gathered in Reading town centre from as early as 11am to cheer on Brian McDermott and his entire squad and playing staff when they passed through the streets in two open top double decker buses.

Chants of "We are Premier League, say we are Premier League!" and "URZ!" rang out as the convoy set off from Friar Street at 12.30pm passing Blagrave Street, Valpy Street, The Forbury, Market Place, High Street, London Street, Silver Street, Whitley Street, Basingstoke Road, Bennett Road and up the A33 to the Madejski Stadium.

Adoring fans lined the route honking horns, blowing whistles and waving blue and white flags and scarves as the players - many sheltering under umbrellas - held the Championship trophy aloft and waved back at the fans.

Liz Leighton from Whitley who watched from outside the Town Hall said: "I don't care if it's raining, windy or snowing, I'll do anything to support the team - I love them and I blew Sir John a kiss as they passed."

Thousands more gathered at the stadium to welcome the team at 2.30pm before Football League chairman Dave Clarke presented the Championship trophy and individual winners medals.

The afternoon was rounded off the naming of the Player of the Season and a lap of honour.