A record-breaking 150,000 people are believed to have taken part in this year's Pride festival in Brighton on Saturday.

Sussex Police said the day had been peaceful and successful with very few isolated incidents although officers had received one report of a homophobic assault which was being investigated.

By Saturday night there had been around 15 arrests for various offences including nine drug-related, two public order, one theft and one drunk and incapable.

Around 100 officers and staff from the Gay Police Association's of Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Gwent, Scotland, Leceistershire and the Metropolitan Police led the carnival parade and were joined by Sussex Police Deputy Chief Constable Geoff Williams.

He said: "I was delighted to be able to take part in such a wonderful event. Each year we are joined on the parade by more officers and staff from around the UK and this year we saw more than ever before.

"Our participation is a demonstration of our support to our own staff who not only police the LGBT community but are part of that community themselves."

City Commander Chief Superintendent Paul Pearce said: "This year's Pride yet again saw thousands of people lining the city streets and enjoying themselves in the day's celebrations.

"It was probably the biggest attendance to date, yet despite such huge numbers, it was a peaceful, successful parade and party in Preston Park with very few isolated incidents.

"I'd like to thank all the organisers and participants for making the event such a great success."

See our eight-page colour Pride supplement in the middle of the paper.