BOURNEMOUTH erupted in an explosion of colour and glamour on Saturday for the town’s 10th annual Bourne Free parade.

Led by Eurovision legends Bucks Fizz in a dazzling pink car, the gay pride celebration kicked off in style on East Overcliff Drive at 11am, before weaving its way through the town centre.

People flocked to cheer on those marching and lined the roads waving banners and taking photographs as a plethora of eye-catching sights were displayed.

See all the pictures from the Bourne Free Festival parade in a gallery

These included a lorry packed with dancers energetically gyrating to Lady Gaga hits and other dance favourites, a lavishly decorated Wilts and Dorset bus, a float full of ‘nuns’ and others holding placards adorned with the words ‘thank God for lesbians’.

Event chairman Peter Lovegrove said he was delighted with how things had gone and was particularly excited to see Cheryl Baker and the rest of the Bucks Fizz gang join in with the fun.

“We’re in double digits now and have put on so much more this year,” he added. “It’s been fantastic. We have had a great reaction from people. This is not just about the gay community; it is about celebrating all diversity.”

Watching as dozens of people clutching a gigantic rainbow flag carefully negotiated their way through the route, spectator Karl Harman said he was enjoying the day.

He added: “It’s been even better than last year. I think for the 10th anniversary they had to do something extra special.”

The night before the parade a ‘Village People’ flash mob descended on Bournemouth Square. Events planned for the weekend included singing and dancing at the bandstand in Lower Gardens and a special church service in the Triangle on Sunday.