POLICE are still preparing for a mass invasion of partygoers today despite the cancellation of the Love Parade.

More than 250,000 revellers were expected to attend the Radio 1 parade in Newcastle before it was cancelled last weekend because of parking and health and safety worries.

But tens of thousands are still expected to arrive in the city to take part in a host of nightclub parties expected to last into the small hours. Colin Revel, the host of the biggest party at the Telewest Arena, called on lovers of dance music to "fly the flag for the region".

Civic leaders are hoping that the weekend will still be a success in order to maintain Newcastle's reputation as one of the world's party cities.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Constable of Northumbria Police, Mike Craik, stressed there will be extra patrols on duty. He said: "Because we had planned for an event likely to attract up to 250,000 we have the resources available to deal with however many visitors arrive.

"We understand the disappointment of music fans who were planning to come to the Love Parade and hope those who do still come will enjoy themselves. But the sensible thing to do would be to get tickets for the organised venues."

Council tax payers will not foot the bill for the extra offices as the force's agreement with Radio 1 will cover the costs.