Birmingham Pride: Increased security measures in place

Organisers of Birmingham Pride say an air of defiance is emerging ahead of the weekend event.

Security arrangements have been reviewed and a remembrance silence will be held before the start of the festival's Carnival Parade in Victoria Square.

Assistant Chief Constable Alex Murray, of West Midlands Police, said they were expecting tens of thousands of visitors to the city.

"I appreciate that people planning to attend may feel a sense of nervousness - I would like to take this opportunity to give you some reassurance that a full policing operation is in place and is subject to ongoing reviews," he added.

"We will have a large number of police officers, specials and police staff on hand to keep the public safe - this isn't only for the Pride event, but also for anyone visiting the city to enjoy all it has to offer."