Weymouth and Portland was bursting with Pride as the town made history with its first ever LGBTQ+ celebration.

Dressed to impress, rainbow-clad revellers flocked to the main arena at Radipole Park on Saturday, where Pink tribute Laura Tapp helped get the party started on the main stage. Crowds danced and sang along to upbeat performances from A Touch Of Little Mix and Son of a Tutu.

Saturday's headliners included The Sundaes, Big Brovaz and JLS star Aston Merrygold.

Wearing rainbow fairy outfits were Tabatha Hathaway and Hannah Pithers from Weymouth.

Hannah said: "It's really awesome to be here - we're meeting a big group of friends later. I'm looking forward to seeing Aston mainly, but also the Abba tribute band."

Enjoying some ice cream in between acts were Weymouth residents Amber Murgatroyd, 20 and Tilly Jarman, 22 - wearing a rainbow superhero cape with pride.

Amber said: "We support the whole meaning behind the event, and its message of diversity and equality. It's amazing to be part of Weymouth's first Pride - hopefully it'll continue to grow. We're loving it."

Some guests travelled hundreds of miles to be part of the celebration.

London resident James Orton grew up in Weymouth before moving away, but made a special pilgrimage to the event, along with husband, John.

"We didn't have anything like this when I was growing up here", he said.

"It's great to see everyone enjoying themselves - kids, families - people of all ages. It's been a long time coming and I'm glad to see a Pride event in Weymouth finally coming to fruition."

According to volunteer stewards Roger Tipney and Carol Gilbert, the extravaganza even outshone established Pride events elsewhere.

"I think it's fantastic - especially as since it's the first one. I'm already looking forward to next year", Mr Tipney said.

Sunday afternoon's family friendly entertainment was provided by local performers including Finlay Leslie, Lady Gaga tribute Leanne Jackson and The Leggomen.

The grand finale saw a showcase of classic boyband hits, performed by stars from The X-Factor and All Together Now.

A firework display on the seafront brought the celebrations to a close yesterday evening.

Jamie Crage, one of the organisers, said: "The atmosphere has been phenomenal - feedback has been very positive.

"I'd like to thank the sponsors, committee, volunteers, and Weymouth College. We're working on next year's Pride and are excited to make this an annual event."

  • See tomorrow's Dorset Echo for our eight-page Pride picture special and view the gallery on our website at dorsetecho.co.uk