Umbrellas were essential given the torrential rain.

But they served quite a different purpose for today’s women’s march along Douglas promenades as they were used to shield those taking part from a rival demonstration staged by the controversial Abort67 group.

Brollies and a big screen were held pointing sideways to ensure young eyes didn’t see Abort67’s banners showing images of aborted foetuses.

Fears of a clash between the two demonstrations proved unfounded.

And the umbrella demo was a dignified response to Abort67’s shock tactics, proving it’s better to ignore than confront provocation.

There was a huge turn-out for the women’s march, which was billed as a show of ’unity and respect’ and which set off from the War Memorial and ended at the Sea Terminal.