COLCHESTER was awash with colour as thousands turned out to take part in Pride celebrations.

The annual event was cancelled last year due to the pandemic but it returned with a bang on Saturday as Firstsite was lit up with a party atmosphere.

The event featured live music, poetry readings, performing arts and workshops, with people of all ages heading down to take part.

Dan Deller-Thompson, chairman of Colchester Pride, said: “It was a really great day and everyone seemed to have a lovely time. 

“The feedback has been positive and we’ve had a number of people saying how safe they felt and how they could be themselves.

“Ultimately, it was all about having fun and everyone seemed to do that. Even when it was raining, people kept on dancing.

“I want to thank all the businesses and organisations who have helped this year and got on board. Hopefully it will keep getting bigger and better.”

Pride celebrations first took place in Colchester in 2017 and Dan says preparations are already underway for next year’s festival.