Crowds join march to fly the flag for second Witney Pride

Following a march through the high street there was live music, dancing, food and drink on the Leys.

Organiser Beth Sherlock said; “As chair of Witney Pride, I would like to say how very proud I am of our town for coming out and supporting this event and showing how inclusive it can be.

"We had so many more people take part in the parade and attend the festival day. It had a fun, relaxed atmosphere and it was amazing to see so many flags being worn with Pride."

She added: "Witney Pride works hard to be there for the LGBTQ community and holds regular groups and events throughout the year and welcomes all allies who support us.

"We are a Pride that stands firmly with our trans family against the hatred and hostility they face on a daily basis. You don't have to understand someone else's gender or sexuality to allow them to be free to live their lives in peace."

Cllr Andrew Coles told the crowd: “It’s absolutely wonderful to see so many of you here and showing just what an open, inclusive and tolerant community we are in Witney and across West Oxfordshire.

“As a gay member of our community I know just how important Pride events are and I am absolutely thrilled that my first official engagement as deputy chair of West Oxfordshire District Council is to be here today.”

Mr Coles thanked Witney Town Council and local businesses whose sponsorship has ensured the event stays free.

He added: “Pride isn’t just about enjoying ourselves and having fun. For many members of our community they still face dreadful persecution and discrimination and I’m thinking especially of our trans community because they really still face terrible stigma on a day to day basis so whilst we enjoy ourselves let’s not forget them.”

He also asked the crowd to remember LGBTQ people around the world facing oppression.

West Oxfordshire District Council flew the Pride flag at its Woodgreen offices on Saturday which was Pride Day.

Mayor Cllr Owen Collins added: “Thanks to all the people who organized this event on such a beautiful day.”

To laughter, he added: “Even the sun decides to come out.”

He said the day was about Pride and he felt proud to be part of the Witney community which celebrates all of its members but added: “Pride isn’t just a celebration, it’s a protest.”