PRIDE CELEBRATIONS GET UNDER WAY IN CAPITAL
Crowds have gathered in the capital for London's annual Pride Parade.
The procession set off from Hyde Park on Saturday afternoon, with Mayor of London Sadiq Khan at the front alongside his wife, Saadiya Khan.
The mayor was joined by Andrew Boff, a Conservative London Assembly member, and air quality campaigner Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah.
Mr Khan said in a statement: "I'm delighted that London's diverse LGBTQI+ communities and allies are once again joining together in the heart of our capital for our world-renowned Pride celebrations and march of solidarity."
Organised by not-for-profit Pride in London, an estimated 500 LGBTQ+ community groups and businesses are taking part, comprising more than 32,000 people.
'Beacon for openness'
"Pride is one of the highlights of my year and it is an honour to have been on every march since I was first elected as mayor in 2016," added Mr Khan.
"This incredible event is a shining light for LGBTQI+ rights and shows why our city is a beacon for openness and inclusion - a place where you are embraced and celebrated for who you are. Our capital's LGBTQI+ communities make a huge contribution to life in London."
He continued: "There is however still work to be done to achieve true equality, and as a proud ally, I'll continue to stand side-by-side with our capital's LGBTQI+ communities as we work to build a better London for all."
Ahead of the event Transport for London (TfL) warned there may be disruption and Tube station closures.
It advised participants to arrive at Bond Street, Hyde Park Corner or Marble Arch stations, and encouraged customers who wish to watch the parade or attend events at Trafalgar Square or in Soho to arrive at Bond Street, Charing Cross, Embankment, Tottenham Court Road, Victoria or Westminster stations.
The parade started at Hyde Park at midday and finished at Trafalgar Square where live music, speeches and performances has been staged.
There are also other stages that have been placed around the city, including Soho Square, Leicester Square and Victoria Embankment Gardens.
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2024-06-29T13:30:17Z dg43tfdfdgfd
