Pride back on parade
GROUPS on parade brought a splash of colour to the city as Nottinghamshire Pride celebrations returned for the first time in two years.
It was the first time since 2019 that the march, which champions diversity, took place in Nottingham after disruption caused by the pandemic.
Groups dressed in spectacular costumes and colours played their part in creating a carnival atmosphere on Saturday afternoon.
Participants said it was great to see so many people turn out.
Aiden Fasey, 19, of Long Eaton, said: “It’s incredibly important, I mean we have had two years off – this is the first time we can all come together.
“With everything in the news with healthcare and rights and not having that for two years, and not being able to support each other in person, it means a lot.
“This is my second time here and it’s really nice.”
Martha Scattergood, 23, a chemical engineering student at the University of Sheffield, said: “One thing I really like about Pride now is everyone is more familiar with all the flags.
“There’s not just gay and straight – there’s so many sides to the LGBTQ+ community.
“I went to Leicester Pride last weekend on my own. I just absolutely loved it.”
Ms Scattergood added: “There’s definitely a lot of people compared to what it usually is, despite Covid, which just shows it’s becoming more popular every year.”
People gathered from 10am at the top of Albert Street, near St Peter’s Church and Lister Gate.
The parade got under way from 11am and ended in Broad Street in Hockley.
It was led by a Nottinghamshire fire engine and two marching bands.
The theme this year was about freedom, love, and equality.
Speaking before the march set off, Leigh Ellis, chairperson at Nottinghamshire Pride, said: “The march has always been the soul and centre of Notts Pride; it anchors us all to the core purposes of the Pride movement.
“If you feel able to join the march, turn up as your proudest self – unfiltered and fabulous, whatever that means for you. Many who rely on Pride to feel a sense of community, safety and acceptance will be delighted that this year’s celebrations will go ahead in person.”