BRIGHT colours shone with pride through Bournemouth on Saturday morning as the annual Bourne Free parade made its way through the town centre.
Lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders marched from East Cliff to Meyrick Park for the biggest LGBT events on BCP’s calendar.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service led the pack through the streets this year with other organisations such as the ambulance service, National Trust and Morebus following behind.
BCP Council also came out in support with its Pride Nation group, which included Nick Collins.
He said: “We’re here because it’s important for us to celebrate inclusivity and diversity. We’ve all come in block colours representing our favourite colours.
“This event is always so fun and exciting and it’s a sheer joy to be at, the feeling that we’re all safe here. But there is still a lot of work to do.”
Steve Cox-O'Rourke added: “Bourne Free is a lot of fun but there is still a need for it, politically and socially.
“This is why I’m here.”
Cross dressing Jonai Da Silva, who was marching proud at the front for Dorset HealthCare, added: “It’s about being visible, engaging, diversity, inclusion.
“I work in mental health and this is so, so important.”
Meanwhile, Mark Frederick lined the street with his family in a show of support for family members who have come out.
He said: “It’s so important to show you support your loved ones and everybody else in the community that you support them.
“Coming out can already be difficult and I want to help make it as easy as possible.”
BCP Council leader Vikki Slade – who was recently elected as MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole – added: “I’ve been coming to pride for a few years and it’s such a happy, optimistic place to be.”
Across the two days there will be workshops and educational sessions, providing opportunities to learn about LGBT issues and history.
Organisers said pride this year is an “inclusive event where they can feel safe, be themselves, and fully immerse in the joyous atmosphere”.
“Bourne Free is a safe space for everyone to feel like they can be themselves," said Dawn Lewis, co-chair of Bourne Free.
“It's a place where people can dance, relax, educate themselves and immerse themselves in the community.”
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