People celebrate 'true authentic selves' at Pride

A Northampton Pride organiser said it was positive to see people celebrating their gender identity and sexuality.

Nick Allen, from the local Pride committee, said there were more people at the event in Market Square on Saturday than the previous year.

The spectacle followed a policy change on West Northamptonshire Council which prevents the authority flying LGBTQ+ rainbow flags from its buildings.

"I am really enjoying seeing many more young people being able to celebrate their true authentic self... in ways I couldn't 30 years ago," Mr Allen said.

Allison Trafford, from Buckinghamshire, said there had been a "buzz" all day

The newly elected Reform UK administration made changes to the local authority's flag protocol after coming to power last month.

It means only the Union Flag, the St George's flag and the authority's own flag can be flown outside its buildings.

Mr Allen said it was "disappointing" not to see the council fly a Pride flag on the occasion, but many businesses and organisations in the square did.

"Northampton Pride will continue and, in many respects, when you look around the Market Square today, you see many of the businesses and organisations that have buildings here proudly displaying a rainbow or progress flag.

"I think that is really important to me to demonstrate that ally-ship.

"Although, yes it is disappointing the council is not displaying the Pride flag outside its building on Northampton Pride day, largely the businesses and organisations based in the town are doing that for them - and I think that is really important to me."

Kamila Nowysz was visiting family in Northampton when she heard about the event and said it was the "perfect opportunity" to attend

Kamila Nowysz, 27, had been in the town from Manchester when she heard about the event.

The teacher said: "The visibility is incredible.

"I think visibility is really important, it's important to know that we are here and we are not going away and we need the rights, queer rights, and human rights."

Oskar Lee added: "It's really important, especially in recent times, to just know there is that sense of community and know that you're not alone.

"No matter what your identity, there are always people who will accept you and are like you."

Oskar Lee, 23, from Northampton, said that despite the heat, everyone had been looking after each other