Thousands of revellers camped it up in the sun for one of the most flamboyant gay festivals in Britain.

Pride turned Brighton into a sea of colour and glitz on Saturday, a sizzler of a day, as the parade, dedicated to 75 years of Hollywood and the Silver Screen, set off from Marine Parade towards Preston Park.

Crowds lined the streets to watch the eccentric, camp and sometimes outrageous procession, featuring floats carrying of revellers clad in fantastic costumes.

Marlene Dietrich and Marilyn Monroe were among the glamorous stars of the screen in the parade and there was a float dedicated to Flash Gordon.

Towering beehives, ballroom gowns sequins and feathers were the order of the day.

Crowds of clubbers dancing to booming pop favourites mingled with elderly and dignified men dressed as Hollywood dames.

Club Revenge had the loudest float and Brighton Oasis Sauna one of the most original, featuring ancient Egyptians wearing glitter wigs and tropical palm trees.

But there was also a more serious side to the procession with scores of marchers carrying banners calling for the scrapping of Section 28 which bans the promotion of homosexuality in schools.

Preston Park was buzzing, with many people travelling to Brighton from all over the UK to soak up the unique atmosphere.

In an effort to build bridges between the gay community and the police, licensing officer Kareen Plympton organised a stand where officers were on hand to answer questions.

Seven people were recruited to become special constables.

Special Constable Steve Cunliffe said:

"This is a really trouble-free event. It's been brilliant."

In Preston Park, there was a large market stall area, a bungee jump crane, bars and a cabaret tent with acts such as diva Lola Lasagne, who wowed the crowds with saucy jokes and songs, Dave Lynn and Maisie Trolette. On the main stage, Jimmy Somerville headed the line-up with Live and Kicking stars Supergirly, boy bands Get Real and Word on the Street and Eurovision Song Contest competitor Nicki French performing.

Sadie Q, from Hove, spent nearly a year creating his extravagant wicked queen fancy dress and scooped the best costume award, a trip to the Canary Islands, which he decided to raffle for Sussex Beacon.