Police have warned there will be “no tolerance of hate crime” as a busy weekend of Pride celebrations take place in London.
More than a million people are expected to join celebrations in the capital and the public will see a heavy police presence on Saturday.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell, who is leading the policing operation for Pride in London, said the aim is for anyone who attends to be able to “safely and securely” enjoy the events, which will include a parade and entertainment stages.
Organisers say that more than 35,000 marchers from more than 600 diverse groups are set to take part in a procession which will run from Hyde Park Corner to Whitehall Place via Piccadilly.
The procession includes everything from grassroots community organisations and LGBTQIA+ sports clubs to non-profits, faith groups and employee networks.
There will also be entertainment stages at Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Golden Square, Soho Square, Dean Street and Victoria Embankment Gardens. Pubs and bars across Westminster will be open as usual and are expected to be very busy.
Mr Savell said: “Our priority is to provide a visible, proportionate and effective policing presence that is ready to respond swiftly to any incidents.
“Pride is hugely significant for LGBT+ communities and those attending should be able to do so free from discrimination, abuse or fear.
“There will be no tolerance of hate crime – we urge anyone who is a victim of it to speak to an officer immediately so we can take action.”
He urged anyone who is set to go London during the busy weekend to check their travel plans in advance and to “look out for one another and ask for help if you need it.”
Despite many other policed events taking place across the capital this weekend, neighbourhood officers will be maintaining their usual duties and protecting local communities, the Met said.
Information on your local dedicated LGBT+ Community Liaison Officer (CLO) can be found on the Met Police website.
Information for anyone planning to come to Pride in London, including maps and details of key timings, is available on the official event website.
Information on travel options, including live updates on any delays or diversions, can be found on the Transport for London website.