NORTHUMBRIA Police are "Policing with Pride" again as Newcastle prepares to host the biggest Pride festival the region has ever seen.

The event is the tenth to be held in Newcastle and is taking place at Nun's Moor Park this weekend.

Last night, the force lit up its city centre police station at Forth Banks, in Newcastle, in preparation for celebrations.

The force is working with Pride FM who has sponsored the big ‘switch on’ to show how Northumbria Police celebrates equality and will not tolerate discrimination in any form.

Chief constable Winton Keenen said: “By lighting-up our building at Forth Banks there is no louder message to show that we are an inclusive organisation and we are proud of the work we do to celebrate equality, both within our organisation and with the communities we serve.

“It is expected to be the biggest Northern Pride Festival ever to be hosted in the region with tens of thousands of people visiting the city. Those travelling by train into the city will struggle to miss our building lit up in the rainbow colours. We want all visitors coming to Newcastle Pride to enjoy the celebrations.

“Throughout the weekend we will have staff at a stall in Nuns Moor Park for people to speak to police about any issues they may be experiencing or just to have a chat to find out more about the opportunities within the force.

“It is very important for us to work with people who identify as LGBT+ so we can build relationships of trust and confidence in the local police service. ”

Jonathon Morrell, Chair of Pride Radio 89.2 FM added: “This rainbow lighting will provide such a spectacular view and is a great way to celebrate the Pride weekend.

“It’s fantastic to be working in partnership with Northumbria Police at such an important time for the LGBT community.”

Dame Vera Baird QC, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner expressed the importance of showing support for the LGBT+ community.

She said: “Pride is a superb event and I’m delighted to offer my support once again, there’s lots planned over the weekend and I hope the sun shines.

"Pride is a great opportunity for those attending to chat with police officers and staff to find out more about how Northumbria Police continue to support the LGBT+ community."

To find out more about how Northumbria Police support the LGBT+ communities, visit their stall at Nun’s Moor Park or follow Northumbria's LGBT+ support association on Twitter at @NPLGBT