Channel Islands first Pride parade hosts thousands

The parade passed through Jersey's main shopping area, King and Queen Street with dozens watching on from shop doorways

Thousands of people turned out for the Channel Islands first Pride parade.

The event, organised by Guernsey-based campaign group Liberate, comes two weeks before the States of Jersey are due to vote on equal marriage.

Organiser Christian May said he was amazed at the support from the community and business.

He said: "Growing up an openly gay man I never thought I'd see anything like this in Jersey. I'm amazed at how far the island has come."

Half-way through the parade people unravelled a giant rainbow flag and carried it overhead to the final stop

David said he was really excited to have the chance to take part in such an important event

People said Jersey had become a very accepting place

It is estimated at least 3,000 people joined the parade as it marched through the town.

A number of community groups, unions and banks were involved in the parade which left West Centre, marching through the main high street and finishing at Weighbridge Place.

Chief Minister, Senator Ian Gorst, welcomed the parade into Weighbridge Place and hoisted a rainbow flag.

The idea for the parade came about after a equality march organised by political party Reform Jersey in September 2014.

The Jersey Youth Service, which provides support for LGBTQ teenagers was in the parade

People had their dogs join them in the parade including this one who was jumping and bouncing with the music

A number of people from community groups and businesses got involved in the parade and said they felt it was important to show Jersey was open