A SPACE odyssey with a difference touched down at Oxpens on Saturday.

Thousands of people from Oxford’s gay, bisexual and transgender community proudly marched through town to mark the annual Pride events.

The colourful troupe, led by street band Horns of Plenty, walked from Cornmarket Street, through Carfax and Queen Street to the castle, and down to Oxpens.

Celebrations at the field then went into the early evening as revellers were entertained by local seven-piece jazz outfit, the Original Rabbit Foot Spasm Band.

The theme for this year’s event, sponsored by public sector union, Unison, was 2010: A Proud Odyssey, and many revellers dressed in space-themed costumes.

The march was the culmination of a 10-day festival which included a host of events, from karaoke to clubbing, debates to dog competitions.

Joining the march was 19-year-old student Yuan Yang, who is women’s officer at Oxford University.

She said: “I think it’s great to show respect for people and their choices and sexuality.”

Miss Yang was joined by friend and fellow student, Sophie Lewis, of Cowley.

Miss Lewis said: “It’s been a great turnout today. I have come to march today because I am proud to be queer.”

Jessica Harding, 28, from Thames Valley Positive Support works with people diagnosed with HIV.

She was joined by colleagues who dressed as silver space sailors.

Miss Harding said: “We like to show our support at as many pride events as we can, but the feeling in Oxford today has just been brilliant.”

Fairground rides, refreshments and advice stalls from groups such as HIV and Aids charity, the Terrence Higgins Trust, were at Oxpens Field to welcome the marchers.

Thames Valley Police, and Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue also had displays at the event.

Friends Emma Chavagnon, 20, and Kaz Edwards, 23, from Wallingford, came to enjoy the celebrations.

Miss Edwards said: “We try and support as many pride events as we can. It does bring us all together.”

Oxford Pride director Mazz Image said: “The point of Oxford Pride is to get people to come out to celebrate the diversity of lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer life in Oxford.

“We have had between 4,000 and 5,000 people here today.

“It’s important to have events like Oxford Pride to enable everyone to come together and celebrate different communities.”