Mad for it Manchester goes wild for band's homecoming

All around the world, you've gotta spread the word. And if the lyrics to the song are right, the word is well and truly out. Behind the bar at an Oasis-themed pub in Manchester's Northern Quarter, fans from across the world have planted their flags in a giant map of the globe to show the extraordinary international appeal of the city's most famous musical sons.

- Josh Halliday

"We had our first Russians in the other day. The Americans are mad for it - they mither us to death for Wonderwall," said Paul Gallagher, who owns the Definitely Maybe bar with his brother Mark (the city's other Gallagher brothers).

It is impossible to escape Oasis fever in the city before tonight's performance - the first of five sold-out homecoming gigs. Every other pub is hosting an after-party. Bars blast out Supersonic at lunchtime, while signs outside advertise "Beer Here Now". Even Aldi has got in on the act, temporarily rebranding one of its stores "Aldeh".