Surrey Police joins in Brighton and Hove Pride parade (From Redhill And Reigate Life)

Surrey Police joins in Brighton and Hove Pride parade

10:55am Tuesday 4th September 2012 in Local News

Surrey Police once again joined the Brighton and Hove Pride parade at the weekend in a show of support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

Six officers and members of staff marched in the city on Saturday (September 1) on their rest days to represent the Force, with colleagues from Sussex, Hampshire, Kent, Thames Valley, Essex and the British Transport Police.

It was the ninth year the Force's police officers and community support officers had been given permission to march in full uniform.

Inspector Wendy Whiting said: "It was a great parade and knowing that we have many Surrey residents who attend, our involvement in the parade is a visible demonstration of our commitment and support to both the communities we serve, as well as our own lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender officers and staff."

Surrey Police has around 21 Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers (LAGLOs) who are specially trained to support lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender victims and witnesses.

Inspector Whiting added: "If you have been assaulted, threatened or intimidated because of your sexual orientation or gender identity, you can always phone and ask to speak to one of our LAGLOs."

People who have been the victim or witness of a homophobic or transphobic hate crime can call Surrey Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

They can also report hate crimes via the Surrey Police website at: www.surrey.police.uk or the True Vision website at report-it.org.uk