First Hebridean Pride set for today

Two Pride festivals will take place in Scotland this weekend, including a first for the Outer Hebrides.

Hundreds of people are expected in Inverness and Stornoway tomorrow for Proud Ness and Hebridean Pride respectively.

The Highland capital’s parade – its first for 15 years – drew some controversy over a petition calling for it not to take place but it was given the go-ahead after a flood of sup- port. Kezia Dugdale MSP is one of those heading to Inverness for Proud Ness.

She said: “I am looking forward to joining thousands of supporters at Proud Ness to show solidarity with those fighting for equality.

“Pride started off as a protest against discrimination and the opposition to the Inverness event shows exactly why it is necessary to continue campaigning.

“Pride is an opportunity to come together and celebrate the progress made towards equality, while also recognis-circumstances ing how much more we must do to make Scotland a more tolerant and inclusive country.”

Pride celebrations return to Inverness after a hiatus of more than a decade, with hundreds of people expected to join in the festivities.

The parade will start at Falcon Square, head along Inglis Street and the High Street to the Town House, then across the bridge and along the river to Eden Court. Stalls, workshops and and live entertainment will be on throughout the day.