THE organisers of Lichfield Pride have hailed the local community following the success of this year's event.
The city centre came alive with colour over the weekend as performances and other attractions took place.
The event also saw the return of the annual Pride march.
A spokesperson said:
"The Pride march wasn't a fancy parade with huge floats and elaborate displays – and that's okay, because that's on purpose. Because at its heart, Pride is a march.
"Long before Pride became the colourful celebrations we know today, LGBTQ+ people marched because they had to. They protested, stood together and demanded the right to exist openly, safely and equally.
"So when we walk through the streets of Lichfield carrying our flags, banners and signs, we are continuing that tradition.
"Pride is a celebration, but Pride is still a protest. We march for those who marched before us, we march for those who never got to see the freedoms we have today, and we march for those who still don't feel able to be themselves.
"We march because equality, acceptance and safety should never be taken for granted."
The organisers also thanked those who turned up to participate or to cheer the march as it weaved through the city centre.
"Four years ago, Lichfield Pride began with an idea that our city deserved its own Pride. Seeing those flags travelling through our streets and seeing our community standing together reminds us exactly why we started.
"But Pride isn't only about one weekend of celebration. It is also about making sure people know that help, advice, friendship, advocacy and support are available when they need them."
