Thousands defy rain to celebrate Pride festival

The soggy weather failed to dampen spirits

Thousands of people defied the downpours to take part in Leeds Pride this weekend.

The vibrant annual festival, which celebrates LGBTQ+ life, was held in the city centre on Sunday.

Despite the miserable weather, there were smiles everywhere as huge numbers turned out to watch the parade make its way across The Headrow amid a party atmosphere.

Several people who attended claimed Leeds had one of the best Pride festivals.

There was a carnival atmosphere in Leeds city centre as people celebrated Pride

One woman, who went to the celebration with her partner and her partner's daughter, said: "Leeds Pride is one of my favourite Prides and I've been to a lot of them.

"I like the family feel about this place. It keeps me coming back every year and I'm really excited to be here.

"Despite the rain the atmosphere feels like it's buzzing."

Several festival-goers said they enjoyed the family-friendly atmosphere

Pride's distinctive rainbow colours, music, dancing and drag queens all formed part of the fun at the festival, which was first held in Leeds in 2006.

Another woman who attended said: "My son came out as gay one-and-a-half years ago, so I wanted to be here for him and to celebrate equality for everyone.

"It's amazing. I'm absolutely loving it!"

Nazir Uddin, who is originally from Bangladesh, said he had to hide his sexuality until he came to the UK.

Nazir Uddin said being at Leeds Pride was "like heaven for me"

He said: "It is illegal to be homosexual in my country.

"It's not just Bangladesh, there are still 64 countries where it's still illegal, so I'm here to represent all of those who are still hiding their sexuality.

"I never experienced this (Pride) back home, so it's like heaven for me and I feel very safe here."

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