Thousands brave heat for Bristol Pride

A large march through the city showcased musical talent as well as lots of colour

Thousands of people have attended Bristol Pride despite the heat, with temperatures reaching more than 30C.

People gathered at Castle Park before the march through the city, ahead of a festival on The Downs which continues into the evening.

Director of the event, Daryn Carter MBE, said last year they had 25,000 on the march and 40,000 on The Downs.

"It has grown massively," he said, "We're one of the largest prides in the UK, one of the biggest events to take place in Bristol."

There was no shortage of colour as people gathered at Castle Park before the march

It is the 16th Pride Mr Carter has delivered in Bristol, and he said it was one of their busiest years ever, with an "incredible" atmosphere.

While people could be seen piling on the suncream, he added: "We've had a bit of rain in previous years, so it's really nice to have the sun out.

"Bristol's always better in the sunshine."

The walking parade was two miles long

The heat did not deter the crowds from turning out to watch the event

Mr Carter explained that he works on it year-round, but volunteers pull it altogether on the day itself.

"Bristol is unique - we are a musical city, we are a festival city. Everyone gets behind us and becomes part of it," he said.

Pride is one of Bristol's biggest events

The parade is walking only, no floats or vehicles, for safety and to keep emissions down

The festival featured several different stages, tents and areas.

A sensory calm space was also included, aimed at autistic people and run by the charity Diverse UK.

Spot the disco ball