THERE was a sea of colour in Bournemouth today as the town came to a standstill for the annual Bourne Free pride parade.

Thousands of spectators lined the streets to welcome the dozens of floats celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender culture.

Beginning at East Overcliff Drive and led by crews from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service, an array of fancy dress and glitzy outfits were on display as the parade weaved and danced its way towards the Triangle.

The theme of this year’s event is superheroes and many of the people taking part in the parade donned masks, capes and costumes.

They were also joined by real life heroes – with members of the police force, fire service and paramedics joining in the parade.

One of the parade organisers told the Echo there were 50 different sections of the parade this year which included various charities, local businesses and LGBT organisations.

Ringwood Brewery, Barclays bank and Morebus, South West Trains and Yellow Buses all had floats in the parade.

He added: “This year’s parade was a great success and it was wonderful to see all the people lining the streets as we passed – especially the same faces we see every year.

“We have so much support from local businesses and volunteers who help us to set up the event.

“It’s been a brilliant day and I’m sure it will continue into the night.”

The pride weekend kicked off with a family fun night on Friday with a free open air screening of The Incredibles on the big screen at the Triangle.

Following the parade this morning there is a big event at the Triangle tonight where singer Heather Small from M People will be headlining. Other acts lined up include Livin Joy, Phats & Small, Brandon Block and the ever popular Angie Brown.

Wristbands are needed to enter The Triangle and includes access to the onsite bar and catering facilities, dance and seating area’s next to the main stage and great entertainment. Tickets are still available and cost £12 each.

Tomorrow there will be a service, led by the Metropolitan Community Church at the Bourne Free stage in the Triangle, followed by coffee and cake at Flirt.

And this year for the first time Kingston Kingston Lacy is holding a fringe event with a live jazz picnic from 2pm. There will be live music and the National Trust property will also be flying the rainbow flag for the very first time.