BRIGHTON and Hove Pride is one of the most important events in the city’s calendar, as a vibrant celebration of inclusion and diversity.

But this year, residents and annual Pride-goers from around the country were unable to celebrate the three-day extravaganza in the usual way, as the coronavirus pandemic forced organisers to call off this year’s event.

READ MORE: Thousands tune in for first ever virtual Brighton Pride event

Instead, viewers from around the world were able to tune in to the first-ever virtual Pride and celebrate safely from their living rooms.

Argus readers have been sharing their best Pride memories and sending in photos of their 2020 Pride at home.

Neil Carvey, who used to live in Brighton and comes down to the event every year from Surrey, said: “I think there’s only one year I’ve not been since 2003.

The Argus: Neil Carvey, left, has been coming to Brighton and Hove Pride since 2003Neil Carvey, left, has been coming to Brighton and Hove Pride since 2003

“Brighton Pride is inclusive of everyone. It doesn’t matter whether you’re gay or straight, fat or thin, black or white.

“I even took my grandparents in 2014.

“I remember sitting at the Old Steine in 2012 with a good friend and his family and just enjoying life.

“It’s just lovely.”

Neil said that this year he caught up with friends and reminisced about previous Pride events while watching the online event.

The Argus: Connor from Yorkshire, second right, still managed to celebrate at home this yearConnor from Yorkshire, second right, still managed to celebrate at home this year

Brighton and Hove organisers have already announced that the theme for Brighton and Hove Pride in 2021 will be Over the Rainbow, and will celebrate the work of NHS staff and key workers, as well as the LGBT community.

Paul Kemp, director of Brighton and Hove Pride said: “The Pride parade has always been such a colourful event that brings our communities together to celebrate diversity, inclusion and our unique city.

"Over The Rainbow celebrates the hope, spirit and unity of all our communities and we sincerely hope Pride 2021 will be a time for everyone to come back together to celebrate our communities, amazing NHS staff and key workers.”