Thousands of revelers took to the streets of Reading this weekend to celebrate a day of diversity and inclusivity across the town within the LGBT community.

Bringing together the spirit of pride to the town of Reading, a variety of groups and organisations, alongside members of the public, came together to show their support for both Pride and the ongoing campaign for equality

The day included a Love Unites Parade through the town and a Festival at Kings Meadow. The festival kicked off with a full line-up of entertainment for local and national talent, a funfair, and a wide range of market stalls from local venders.

This year marked the current chairman - Paul Britts - final year in his position after eight years in the coveted role at Love Unites.

Paul said: “There’s mixed emotions today. Obviously, I’m happy about what we’ve achieved over the last eight years as chair

“The thing that I have been most proud of is the expansion of inclusivity. I think the festival really does attract a wide diverse range of people and it has really put Reading on the map.

“It’s one of the largest free prides in the country now and I’m really proud to have achieved that because it’s still free at the point of entry.

“I am looking forward to the celebration of what we all have achieved and also everything that we have still got to achieve.”

The Mayor of Reading spoke to the Chronicle as he joined the Love Unites parade.

“It feels great to be here. Recent events have tried to put a damper on inclusivity and cohesion which is what we are about. Reading is a prime example of that, and inclusivity is what Pride is all about,” he said.

“People are people. It doesn’t matter what they are or who they are.”

Liam, a member of the committee at Reading Pride said: “This year’s event is absolutely incredible. It’s bigger than any we have had before, and the atmosphere is great. Everyone’s buzzing and having a great time.

“There’s so much diversity in Reading and it should be celebrated. Ultimately Pride is a protest and it’s to establish and elevate for everyone so that will always be part of it.”

Kirsty, from Windsor and Eton Pride spoke about the importance of Pride saying: “It took me a long time to accept who I was, and I think something like this brings together so many people who might be going through the same thing. It’s showing that we’re all in this together.

“The main thing is that remembering that pride is such a community and it’s something to be proud of and to embrace.”