NINE people were arrested as St George's Day celebrations in Manchester turned ugly.

Police were called to several city centre pubs after reports that gangs of drunken revellers were allegedly chanting racist songs and shouting verbal abuse at passers-by.

Officers arrived in force at the Moon Under Water pub on Deansgate after receiving calls from shopkeepers and the public.

Witnesses say a gang of up to 40 revellers - many wearing red and white - were singing abusive songs outside.

Officers were later called to the Mitre Hotel in the Shambles following similar reports.

A total of arrests were made and police issued more than 40 written notices telling people to move on.

A 28-year-old witness, who did not want to be named, said: "I saw two Asian girls being verbally abused as they walked past the Moon Under Water. I also saw members of the group making Nazi salutes.

"It got nasty and it was very upsetting. Some of the songs they were singing were very offensive.

"This sort of behaviour shouldn't be tolerated. I can't understand it. You don't get that sort of behaviour on St Patrick's Day."

A police spokesman confirmed that nine people were arrested for public order offences. He said the vast majority of revellers were well-behaved.

He said: "Greater Manchester Police respects the right of anyone to enjoy the St George's Day festivities and other national events.

"However, GMP will not tolerate racism in any form and anyone found behaving in an anti-social or racist manner will be dealt with appropriately."

A spokesman for the Moon Under Water would not comment but said the pub reopened shortly before 8pm.