Sussex Police has said public safety remains its top priority as Brighton and Hove prepares to host Pride this weekend.
Armed officers will be deployed across the city alongside uniformed and plain-clothed officers and specialist policing teams as part of an extensive security operation.
The reassurance follows tragic events at Pride celebrations in Berlin, with Brighton and Hove Pride organisers expressing solidarity with the German city’s LGBTQ+ community.
A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the tragic events at Pride celebrations in Berlin on Saturday.
“As we look ahead to Brighton and Hove Pride, we want to reassure those attending, as well as residents, businesses and visitors across the city, that their safety remains our top priority.
“We will be working tirelessly this week and throughout the weekend, building on the extensive planning that has taken place over many months with event organisers, Brighton and Hove City Council and other partners, to keep everyone safe and ensure an effective policing operation is in place.
“Uniformed policing, plain clothed officers and specialist teams including armed officers will be deployed across the city, which all form part of our comprehensive plans for policing this event.
“We encourage everyone attending Pride to enjoy the celebrations, look out for one another, and report any concerns. If something doesn’t feel right, speak to one of our officers or a member of security. In an emergency, always dial 999.”
Brighton and Hove Pride said security arrangements were being reviewed ahead of and throughout the weekend.
In a statement, organisers said: “We are deeply saddened by the attack in Berlin. We stand in solidarity with the Berlin LGBTQ+ community. This is why we march for our rights. Pride should be a place of celebration and joy. Brighton stands with Berlin.”
They added: “We work closely with the Police and specialist advisors. Security is reviewed in advance and throughout the Pride weekend.”
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