Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Pride parade sees turn-out at the double
Stepped up security at the second Canterbury Pride did not hinder the celebrations for 10,000 revellers.
An unattended bag at the start of the parade sparked some panic but armed police had arrived within minutes and it was found to be a false alarm.
Organiser Edd Withers said the success of the event “exceeded all of our expectations”.
He added: “Our security company and the police were exceptionally helpful.
“The day went without a hitch and the feedback we received was that people felt reassured and safe.
“Someone left their bag at the beginning of the parade completely unattended. But we had protocols in place for a situation like this and within just a few minutes, armed police had arrived to check the bag.
“I believe the presence of armed police makes people feel safer and it is a sight we feel accustomed to these days. Even if it wasn’t Pride, there is a high chance there would have been armed police on the streets of Canterbury anyway.
“We had more than double the turnout from last year, which puts us firmly on the map.
“It is just our second year and to grow that fast in such a short period of time is unbelievable.”