Tory conference: ‘Boris blimp’ flown by anti-Brexit campaigners follows prime minister to Manchester

Organisers deploy balloon to highlight PM’s ‘over-inflated ego’

The Boris Blimp that loomed outside parliament ahead of Mr Johnson’s move into number 10 has followed the prime minister to Manchester for the Conservative Party Conference.

The inflated incarnation of the prime minister, dressed in a t-shirt bearing an image of the notorious £350m Brexit bus and underwear peppered with hearts and the word “Nigel”, has been deployed a short walk from the party’s conference.

Replete with Mr Johnson’s trademark dishevelled hairstyle, the puffed up prime minister was inspired by the Donald Trump baby blimp – which flew in protest to the president’s UK visit in 2018.

It marks the Boris blimp’s first appearance outside Westminster, having first been unveiled by protest umbrella group March for Change earlier this year.

Tom Brufatto, chair of Britain for Europe one of the group’s members, said: “Boris Johnson thought he was above the law of the land, but despite being found guilty, he continues to ‘fly in the face’ of democracy by bad-mouthing Parliament and anyone who opposes his handling of Brexit. This is a disgrace.

“We’re bringing the Boris Blimp to Manchester in the spirit of peaceful protest, to satirise the Prime Minister’s over-inflated ego and his claim to be the champion of the people, which he could not be further from. The reality is, he’s looking down on us all and laughing, while he plays games with the future of our country.”

It comes as hundreds march through heavy downpours in the city to protest the party’s policies – including Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for Education, Angela Rayner.

Marchers banged drums, blew whistles and chanted “Boris Johnson, shame on you” as they made their way through the city, stopping momentarily near Manchester Central, where the conference is being held.

Roads through the city were closed by police as the march took place and mounted officers led the demonstrators.

Additional reporting by Press Association.