THOUSANDS turned out for the celebration of LGBT+ culture in Colchester’s first Pride event.

The event was a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life and culture across the town.

The event provided entertainment during the day including meditation and relaxation workshops.

Colchester MP Will Quince attended and drew the raffle.

The event, which was hosted at the Firstsite, worked alongside the charity Outhouse East to provide the town with the vibrant event.

Tim Young (Lab), Colchester Council’s councillor responsible for culture, said the Pride event needs to return every year.

He said: “I was in the cabaret myself, it was such a popular event and the auditorium was full.

“Staff told me that there were around 2,500 people so it was really special.

“We know Colchester is a welcoming and diverse place and the Pride event will go from strength to strength.”

An official after-party was hosted at Waikiki nightclub in Crouch Street.