Brighton Pride - "A Great Success"

The city's police chief has praised the day the sun and the crowds came out.

Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett told Heart: "Pride demonstrates how people from all communities can come together and enjoy what this fantastic city has to offer.

"Sussex Police is proud to be involved with the policing of Pride and I'd like to thank all the organisers, the emergency services and all the participants for all their hard work in making the event another great success."

The parade was the biggest ever and organisers say the main event in Preston Park, which was ticketed for the first time, was one of the safest in Pride's 20-year history.

Festival Director, Judith Manson. told Heart: “We are thrilled with the crowd that attended Preston Park - who created a fantastic atmosphere at what has been one of the safest and most enjoyable Pride events to date."

Headliners Alexandra Burke and Joe McElderry certainly has a good time. Alexandra tweeted: “OMG! Brighton Pride! Thank u guys today for such an amazing buzz!”. 

And Joe was equally lavish in his praise. He tweeted: "Wow what a crowd. Brighton Pride was amazing. So much fun."

On the downside, the police reported 24 arrests for public disorder, possession of drugs, criminal damage, robbery and theft. One officer broke his leg as he tried to arrest a man involved in a fight.

St John Ambulance staff treated more than 90 party-goers. Eight of them ended up in A&E.