The sun shone on thousands of people in the Bradford Urban Garden on Saturday as they enjoyed the fifth annual Bradford Pride event.

Coronation Street star Anthony Cotton, who plays Sean Tully in the soap, compered the event which was held to celebrate the city’s lesbian, gay and bisexual communities.

The urban garden was filled with food stalls, market stalls, flags flying high and a stage featuring a range of entertainment for the crowds.

The family-orientated event featured performances from the likes of stand-up Barbara Nice, who appeared on Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights, cabaret act The Showbears and cover acts including Lady Zaza.

Rachel Nauwelaerts, of the Equity Partnership and secretary of the Bradford Pride Committee, said: “We have a track record of doing it now and as a Bradford lass I wouldn’t have dreamt a few years ago we would be able to do this for lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

“So it’s really nice that we are able to do it.

“I still get a buzz out of seeing all these people together.”

Singer-songwriter Horse McDonald who performed at the event, said: “I think all of the prides do grow each year and I think Bradford in particular has grown year on year.

“So I’m delighted to be asked to do this – it’s nice coming down to the festival to show people what I can do.

“I think more than ever it’s essential to have a pride celebration because gay people come from all walks of life and people need to see and feel they are part of a bigger community.”

  • Read the full story in Monday's T&A