Thurrock Council is flying the rainbow flag at the Civic Offices to celebrate Essex Pride.

The flag raising ceremony – which took place on Friday June 15 – brought together Barbara Rice, mayor of Thurrock, residents and members of Thurrock Council staff including the LGBT+ Network.

Following an inspiring speech by the mayor, the rainbow flag was raised by councillor James Halden, councillor responsible for education and health, during a special performance from the Thurrock Council employee choir led by Daryl Branch from Creative Blast.

Essex Pride is an annual event celebrating LGBT+ life, aiming to inspire people to embrace equality and come together to celebrate diversity.

Mrs Rice said: “I am very honoured to be here today as we raise the rainbow flag in Thurrock.

“Thurrock Council proudly supports the LGBT+ community and the work that they do to champion inclusivity and equality.

“Today we raise the rainbow flag as a sign of this commitment.”