THOUSANDS of people are preparing to take to the streets of Bournemouth for the town’s annual pride festival.

The countdown is now on to the annual event Bourne Free from Friday, July 8 until Sunday, July 10 as details have been revealed.

Now in its 12th year, the town will be transformed into a sea of bright colours in honour of the LGBT community.

This year’s theme is Rio Carnival and partygoers are urged to get their feathers ready for the spectacular event that encourages everyone to come together to have fun.

Artists including DJ Artful Dodger, R&B singer Shola Ama, X Factor star Sam Callaham, 90s singer Angie Brown, DJ Brandon Block and Eurovision star Kelly Wilde are all set to perform throughout the weekend.

Festivities begin at 5pm on Friday with a surprise opening to wow crowds at The Square.

A free Family fun night in association with Julia’s House children’s hospices will then begin at The Triangle featuring an open air screening of Rio 2, live music and tribute acts. There will be free candyfloss, popcorn, a bouncy castle and face painting for children as well as the chance to take place in a free family rainbow tapestry.

The jewel of the festivities is the free parade - a chance to dress up and march in solidarity with LGBT causes. It will start from 11am on East Cliff on Saturday before making its way through the town and finishing at The Triangle at 12pm.

Entertainment hosted by Lea Martin takes place at the bandstand, Lower Gardens from 12.30pm until 4.30pm before a carnival at The Triangle until 11pm.

The Metropolitan Community Church will host a special pride service on Sunday in The Triangle from 12pm.

Louise Clarke, chairman and trustee of Bourne Free, said: "It isn't just about the LGBT community, this is for all communities living in Bournemouth and the chance to celebrate diversity and everyone living together.

"The parade is always spectacular but we hope as many families as possible come on Friday evening. Our message is if you can get to us and get home you won't need a penny, it's all free and we hope to see as many communities as possible."

For more information and to buy tickets for Saturday’s events at The Triangle, go to bournefree.co.uk