THOUSANDS turned out for a day of joy and celebration in Dudley town centre yesterday (Sunday July 20).

Colourful flags and rainbow stalls lined the streets around Stone Street Square as Dudley held its first ever outdoor pride event, complete with funfair and family-friendly activities.

Revellers at Dudley Pride Revellers at Dudley Pride (Image: Dudley Council)

Drag Queen Trixie Lee entertained the crowds with some stirring crowd participation and inspiring words.

Trixie LeeTrixie Lee (Image: Dudley Council)

There were performances by among others, Xfactor finalist Georgia Burgess, Birmingham’s Rainbow Voices Choir and Word of Mouth DJ Stuart Ojelay.

Georgia Burgess at Dudley Pride Georgia Burgess at Dudley Pride (Image: Dudley Council)

Baga Chipz MBE headlined the Dudley Council-run event.

The RuPaul Drag Race UK star, actress, singer-songwriter, comedian, ex-page 3 model and ladies darts champion entertained with live vocals, comedy and dazzling costumes.

People enjoying the atmospherePeople enjoying the atmosphere (Image: Dudley Council)

A spokesperson for Dudley Council said "The atmosphere was warm, welcoming and friendly with people of all ages filling the performance marquee and spilling out into Stone Street itself."

There were people of all ages at the event There were people of all ages at the event (Image: Dudley Council)

Councillor Hilary Bills, Mayor of Dudley, said: "Dudley Pride was an absolutely glorious event. The atmosphere was so warm and positive.

"Everyone felt welcome and included and safe.

"The performers were fantastic and the crowds were 100% behind them, joining in with gusto.

"I'm so glad we were able to show our support for the LGBTQ+ community and make this a day to remember."

The band Shut Us Up performed The band Shut Us Up performed (Image: Dudley Council)

The event was made possible by Commonwealth Games Legacy Funding and event sponsors Midtherm Powder Coating, Harry Jones Funfairs and Connect2Dudley.