Thousands attend pride march in Inverness

IT was initially expected to attract several hundred people, but instead marchers turned up in their thousands.

Proud Ness, the first major LGBT event to be held in Inverness for 16 years, has been hailed as a watershed moment.

In the weeks beforehand, the planned event had hit national headlines as it became embroiled in controversy after a 600-name petition was submitted to Highland Council opposing it on "biblical, religious and moral grounds".

But it was given the go-ahead and in a show of solidarity, supporters turned out in force to create a colourful human crocodile.

They came with rainbow-painted faces, many carrying flags, some on roller skates, drag queens sparkling in their sequins and silver heels. chihuahas with rainbow collars, babies in buggies and senior citizens with placards.

In an atmosphere of good humour and friendliness, they wended their way from Falcon Square and along High Street, past the Town House flying a rainbow flag and across Ness Bridge – while the back of the parade was still continuing to file into High Street.

Actress Tilda Swinton and former Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale were among those spotted among the crowds.

Politicians included Inverness MP Drew Hendry and Highlands and Islands MSP Rhoda Grant.

NHS Highland, the police, churches, youth organisations and businesses were also among those represented.

Although speeches were due to be given at Eden Court Theatre, contingency arrangements were quickly implemented to open the gates of Northern Meeting Park to accommodate the vast crowd whose numbers were estimated at between 3000 and 6000.

Church of Scotland minister Rev Peter Nimmo was given a rapturous response as he delivered his speech, describing the event as fun and educational.

Mr Nimmo, the minister of Old High St Stephen’s Church in Inverness, said there were still taboos around sexuality and gender issues.

"I hope today is a signal to LGBT folks in the Highlands that you do have friends who care and who stand alongside you," he said.

Afterwards, he said the response to his speech had moved him deeply.

"It was amazing to contribute even in a small way to Proud Ness," he said.

"It was a good-natured and enjoyable event - an important day in the life of my city of Inverness.

"It was amazing for me to be able to speak to a crowd of thousands about Jesus and how he offers God’s love to everyone without exception.

"The response to my speech has moved me deeply. Many people wanted to speak to me – some were almost in tears.

"It clearly meant a lot to some people that a minister of the church would say the sort of things I said."

James Mackenzie-Blackman, chief executive of Eden Court Theatre, also spoke about the sense of pride in attending the event with his husband and two sons.

He felt "something extraordinary" had happened in the city and said it was not just down to the LGBT community but everyone who had contributed.

"We will not live with shame," he said.

"We will live with pride and will support all of the people here today in Inverness and the Highlands."

Tweeting about the event afterwards, he said he felt humbled and believed it had marked a turning point for the city.

NHS Highland chief executive Elaine Mead also addressed the crowd.

The petition opposing the march was organised by Donald Morrison, a home mission worker with the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing).

He and other church members were at the side of the route of the procession with their own placards.

Afterwards, he acknowledged the controversy had generated large numbers in support of the event.

"Obviously I have to concede it is likely that because of the petition many came out in force but I have no regrets," he said.

Mr Morrison had previously raised concerns that there would be displays of lewdness but commended the event organisers.

"I will give credit where it is due," he said.

"I was very impressed there was nothing of the sense which are displayed in any of the other cities across the country.

"But I still disagree with it and scripture is against it.

"These marches are sinful. God regards these relationships as sinful."

Following the procession, Eden Court Theatre hosted a range of stands with information and displays, plus workshops.

A spokeswoman for the Highland LGBT Forum said they were amazed at the wonderful support they had received from Eden Court, Highland Council, Equality Network, the residents of Inverness and many others.

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