21 July 2012 Last updated at 13:00 ET

York stages first Gay Pride march

About 500 people took to the streets of York for the city's first Gay Pride march

The first Gay Pride march in York has taken place through the city centre.

About 500 gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people and supporters followed a 100m rainbow flag in a two-mile long parade.

Saturday's event was dedicated to supporting marriage equality, organisers said.

The idea for the theme came as a result of recent comments made by the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, against proposals for gay marriage.

Organisers said the event celebrated the "progress made in terms of gay rights and to press for marriage equality and for fair treatment internationally for people regardless of their sexuality".

Dan Sidley, chairman of York Pride, said: "Times have changed here in York and across much of this country and it is telling that the gay people of the city can now celebrate openly and feel a valued part of York life."

The parade left York Minster at midday and followed a route through the city centre along Duncombe Place, Blake Street, Davygate, Parliament Street, High Ousegate, Low Ousegate and Skeldergate to the main Pride venue at Bustardthorpe Field.