THOUSANDS of revellers returned to Chester over the weekend to celebrate the annual Pride event.

Chester Pride, which is now in its sixth year, aims to celebrate diversity and the LGBT+ community and people were encouraged to turn up in their brightest coloured clothing and enjoy the day.

Video and images by Brent Jones

The parade kick started the celebrations with an eight-metre rainbow flag and footfall at the festival site at Castle Square hit an all time high as 13,000 people enjoyed the activities and performances throughout the day.

Helen Pickin-Jones, Chester Pride chairman and Trustee, said: “Each year we are proud and overwhelmed by the growing levels of support from our city for Chester Pride.

“The crowds for the parade this year were the largest yet and we are pleased that so many people were able to enjoy the free entertainment and activities we had planned. You could feel the love and support for Pride.”

The festival was opened by the Lord Mayor Cllr Alex Back, main stage sponsors M&S Bank and Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane.

The event, which was held on Saturday, catered for all ages with a Youth Zone, Vintage Pride, Health and Wellbeing Zone, Glitter Lounge and Chill Out Zone.

Helen said although equality has come a long way, there are still negative experiences of LGBT+ phobia and hate.

She added: “Equality isn’t a given and progress can go backwards as it has in some countries. Pride is also a part of LGBT+ history and Chester should be proud of what it has achieved in showing hate is not welcome in our city.”