Birmingham Pride celebrations get under way

Thousands of people are expected to attend the festivities Credit: ITV Central

Birmingham Pride festivities have begun in the city, with up to 70,000 people expected to attend.

Organisers believe it could raise as much as £30m for the city's economy.

Celebrations last over a two-day period Credit: ITV Central

Birmingham Pride officials say they are promoting freedom and togetherness at a time when in some countries being openly gay can result in death.