THE Pride flag was raised yesterday (Tuesday) outside Deane House, the offices of Somerset West and Taunton Council, by Deputy Mayor Cllr Brenda Watson and Cllr Caroline Ellis, the portfolio holder for culture and arts.

It marks the authority’s commitment to celebrating Taunton’s first Pride Parade taking place on Saturday, July 16.

Cllr Ellis said: “Somerset West and Taunton is very proud to fly the Pride flag and support the amazing Taunton Live and Pride Festival.

"It means so much to the town and wider district, our community and economy to have this incredible free celebration of diversity and creativity that embraces everyone.

"Hats off to the inspirational young LGBTQIA+ leaders involved in Pride, and CIC and Go Create for bringing us a much-needed injection of joy and celebration.

"It’s so important to reinforce to youngsters, in particular, that you are loved, valued and accepted and to ensure everyone feels safe to truly be themselves."

Taunton Live and Pride grew out of Taunton Live Arts Festival, organised by the directors of Go Create, Liz Hutchin, Jenny Keogh, but the parade, originally planned for 2020 was curtailed by Covid restrictions for the next two years.

Ms Hutchin said: “Having organised Taunton Live Arts Festival since 2015 - making the arts accessible to everyone - it's important to Go Create that we include everyone in the community - however they identify.

"We celebrate diversity and inclusivity using the arts and culture as the vehicle to bring the community together. The Pride flag-raising is also crucial to signal to everyone that Taunton is an inclusive and accepting town - making a visible statement that the LGBTQIA+ community is part of the overall community.”