Sun shines on Sunderland's Pride Festival

A parade made its way from the civic centre to Park Lane for a day of fun events, including a headline slot by Sonique.

Atomic Kitten star Kerry Katona and Loose Women’s Katie Price were also due to perform at after party shows.

Chris Ramsay, chairman of the organisers, was overwhelmed by the numbers.

“It is the best turn-out that I have seen,” he said.

“When they came up Holmeside, I could not believe it.”

And he paid tribute to the businesses such as Barclays, Sainsburys and Station Taxis who had supported the day.

“We almost cancelled it a couple of months ago, but when the word got out, all the businesses in Sunderland, and especially the Bid, rallied round and saved us, so I want to say thank you to them.”

Police, ambulance and fire services all took part.

Supt Sarah Pitt, of Sunderland police, said: “I think it is a really good turn-out from the community.

“It must be bigger than last year in terms of the people taking part.”

Mayor of Sunderland Coun Doris MacKnight opened the event.

“It is absolutely fabulous,” she said.

“It is very important to embrace diversity.”