LGBTQ+ supporters lined the streets of Southampton today as Pride rolled into town.

The annual event saw people of all ages dress up in multi-coloured clothing, donning face paint and waving flags.

The pride march began in Queen’s Park, making its way through a sea of confetti at the Bargate, before reaching Guildhall Square where the festivities continued.

Leila Johnson, 50, attended the event in support of her friends, as she sold pride-themed merchandise on a stand outside the civic centre.

She told the Echo: “Days like today are really important.

“I’m passionate about supporting causes like this, I think everyone should be allowed to be who they want to be.

Daily Echo:

“Today is very inclusive and I have friends who are LGBTQ+, so this is my way of supporting them.”

Mike Marks, 70, threw his support behind the event as he said: “I’m a member of the Southampton Socialist Party, and we have a community stall here in support of LGBTQ+ people and their rights.

“I think it’s great to see everybody from the community come together.

"This is what we need in this country, everyone here is here for the same reason and having a good time.

"There hasn’t been any trouble, so this is what it’s all about.

Daily Echo:

READ MORE: Southampton Pride 2023 line-up revealed

“There are people in this community who feel oppressed – which shouldn’t be the case – so, it’s nice that they can come to events like this and feel a sense of freedom, and I’m proud to be here to today to support the event.”

Saturday’s pride march coincided with Southampton FC’s home match against Queens Park Rangers, as Sammy and Mary – the club’s official mascots – also took part in the celebrations.

Jaleel, 40, took part in Southampton Pride along with his Wessex Wyverns teammates – raising awareness of the LGBTQ+ rugby club, as they aim to compete in the World Cup next year.

Daily Echo:

Jaleel told the Echo: “It’s great to see so many people get involved, it’s been a wonderful time.

“For us, it’s important to put gay rugby on the map, as homosexuality in sports tends to get a hard time.

“It’s getting better, and we hope we’re helping that, so people can feel safe when participating in sport.

“This event is brilliant and it’s so inclusive and friendly.

“There’s a lot of children with their families and it’s just great to see.”