Even the rain couldn't dampen the spirits of the hundreds of revellers who turned out for the North East's biggest gay pride event at the weekend.

The fourth Northern Pride took place on Saturday (July 16) and although the rain poured, plenty of people grabbed their umbrellas and joined the party.

No fewer than three marching bands drummed out the beat as the flamboyant parade made its way through the streets of Newcastle, from the Civic Centre to Leazes Park.

And at the head of the parade...