TWENTY people have become the first immigrants in Manchester to pledge allegiance to Queen and country in special "citizenship ceremonies".

New government rules mean anyone who applied for naturalisation after January 1 this year has to take part in the proceedings.

The new citizens promised to uphold British values and either affirmed or swore to "be faithful to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, her heirs and successors according to law".

Up to 2,500 people are expected to take part in the ceremonies - which end with the national anthem - every year in Manchester.

The first 20 said yesterday they were proud to have been able to commit to British rights, democracy and freedom.

Tyrone G Porter, 42, who moved from Manchester in Jamaica to Manchester in England five years ago with his British-born wife, said: "Something like this gives you a real sense of belonging where in the past you could feel excluded.

"The ceremony was done in a very affirmative way, not just to the Queen but to being a good citizen."

Mr Porter, a production manager for a glass-making firm, said he had no regrets about leaving Jamaica.

"I came here for economic reasons and for a better education for my kids," he said. "It's not that I don't feel Jamaican, but I am proud to do this."

Muhammad Asif, a 30-year-old machinist, who moved from Pakistan six years ago, said: "I think it is something people need to do.

Impressive

"You are saying you will be bound by the law and loyalty to the country. It was very impressive and really well organised, and I agree with the idea."

Manchester's first ceremony, held in the town hall, was presided over by Lord Mayor Audrey Jones and superintendent registrar Annette Phillips.

Ms Phillips told the first candidates: "Enjoy your new status as a British citizen. You have made an oath and a pledge that you will be a faithful, true and loyal citizen of the United Kingdom. May you find your lives enriched, and, in turn, may you enrich the lives of others and your community."

Manchester's population of 430,000 is the most culturally and racially diverse of all British local authorities, with 19 per cent of people being from ethnic minorities.

Council leader Richard Leese said: "We are proud of our long tradition of welcoming people to settle here and each community which has developed in Manchester over the centuries has further enriched the cultural life of the city."

The first ceremonies nationwide were held in London at the end of February and the idea has caused some controversy.

David Roney, a deputy superintendent registrar in Rochdale, said he would not take part, claiming immigrants should not be "forced into" pledges against their will.

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