An impressive turn-out for the arrival of a Boer War hero in Manchester.

General Buller was a popular figure even after he was replaced as commander of the British forces in South Africa in 1900, as his warm welcome by the people of Manchester makes clear. The ebullient mood of the crowds of spectators would have pleased the filmmakers - even police officers engage in playful antics for the camera - and highlight the heartfelt patriotism of much of Edwardian Britain.

General Buller had a notorious rivalry with another famous figure, Lord Roberts (affectionately known as 'Bobs'), the man who replaced him in 1900. This was exploited by the ever-enterprising showman and regular Mitchell and Kenyon collaborator AD Thomas, who billed this title alongside a similar film of Lord Roberts' visit to Manchester in October of the same year. Roberts met a similarly warm reception from the crowds, but a review of the programme shown at Manchester's Regent Theatre noted that Buller came out on top with the audience: "Few plays could have attracted such an audience as assembled at the theatre, and no 'striking situation' could have awakened more enthusiasm that did a picture of General Buller. The reception given to Lord Roberts when he appeared on screen was cold by comparison." (Manchester Evening News, 5/11/1901)