THE rainbow flag is flying high in Dudley following an event in Coronation Gardens today marking International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB).

The first event of it's kind in Dudley saw more than 100 people gather to view performances, hear readings and see the rainbow flag being raised over Dudley Council House and Dudley Castle.

The event was held to mark International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, a worldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversities. Hundreds of events in over 120 countries across the world take place to mark this significant day within the LGBTQ+ community.

Compere Trixie led the event and Dudley drag queen teenager Athena Heart performed, alongside up and coming star Liam Price, In Sound Company, Kimichi School in Birmingham and local borough schools.

The newly appointed Mayor of Dudley, Councillor David Stanley and other invited guests including Deputy Lieutenant Ninder Johal and Reverend James Treasure spoke at the event and poems were read by Alan Parr and Chief Superintendent Sally Bourner.

The Mayor of Dudley Councillor David Stanley said: "Dudley Council is committed to achieving parity for all our residents irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

"We have flown the rainbow flag from the Council House on this day for the past two years and this year we also held this successful event to show our solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.”

There was also a special performance by In Sound Company, an inclusive choir created by Wordsley-born Chris Passey and Richard Skilbeck. The choir has toured the UK with Josh Groban and Russell Watson and has had notable appearances on Songs of Praise.