Washington braces for inauguration

WASHINGTON DC was shrouded in a cloak of steel last night as Republicans prepared to celebrate George W Bush’s inauguration amid unprecedented levels of security.

The capital was gradually closed off to the public as the tightest post-September 11 security plan was rolled out under the watchful eye of thousands of undercover agents and police.

As security fences and barriers went up, manholes were welded shut and hotels and offices swept by teams of officials.