HE is an eccentric Etonian who usually spends his days running London, but the capital's top man has today had a change of pace - bargain hunting on Bury Market.

Boris Johnson braved the Manchester rain to meet market traders and shoppers on a publicity call in support of Bury North MP David Nuttall, of the Conservatives.

Mr Nuttall is gunning to retain his seat in May's General Election and got some moral support during the event from Johnson, who has been tipped to be a future Prime Minister.

During this afternoon's visit, Mr Johnson told The Bury Times: "I'm really excited to be here in Bury to see David and I am looking forward to going around the market, which is one of the attractions of the area, and see what I'm going to buy.

"I bet there are lots of bargains on offer."

He added: "Bury looks terrific and I think that David is doing a bang up job as the MP and I'm very much hoping he gets returned."

Mr Nuttall: "I'm delighted to welcome him and it's always good to have visitors and especially nice to have Boris Johnson here today.