Pride marchers take to streets

The march left Blythswood Square before heading to George Square

Up to 5,000 people have taken part in the annual Pride march through Glasgow city centre.

The parade is the largest lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender event to take place in Scotland.

The march left Blythswood Square at about 1130 BST, before making its way to George Square.

Glasgow City Council marked the event by flying the rainbow flag, a sign of diversity and inclusiveness, above the city chambers.

Irfan Rabbani, the council's executive member for equalities, said: "A wide variety of flags are flown above the city chambers and it is entirely fitting that we celebrate the diversity of our population by raising the rainbow flag for this very special occasion."

'Party atmosphere'

The parade was addressed by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, before the start of a street party in George Square which was to last until the early evening.

Ms Sturgeon said: "I believe that a successful Scotland is civilised, fair and inclusive and provides equal opportunity and choice for all its people.

"That is the Scotland that I will feel proud to live in and that is what the Scottish Government is committed to working towards."

Organiser Ross Stevenson said he was happy with the number of marchers that had turned up, which was 2,000 higher than had been expected.

He said: "The weather has turned out nice and there is quite a party atmosphere."