GAY Pride could soon be coming to the borough if ideas put forward by an Accrington hairdresser go ahead.

An annual march through the town and a replica of Manchester's Canal Street are two of the ideas being paraded by Paul Freely, owner of Euro Hair and Beauty on Cross Street.

Councillor Tony Dobson, Cabinet portfolio holder for regeneration said Mr Freely had written to Hyndburn Council regarding the gay community in Accrington.

Councillor Dobson said: "Mr Freely thinks the council doesn't do enough for the gay community but I like to think we have a diverse community and we serve everyone equally.

"The idea of a Gay Pride march through Accrington is interesting, but Manchester City Council doesn't fund the parade, it has an organising committee. However, if a committee is formed in Accrington then the council will give all the support it can."

The idea was also backed by the leader of Hyndburn Council, Councillor Peter Britcliffe, who said the borough already held many marches and would welcome a Gay Pride event.

Councillor Britcliffe, said: "We operate an equal opportunities policy taking into account, race, gender and sexual orientation and don't discriminate against individuals.

"I am in favour of another march if there is a demand for it as we already hold marches to celebrate various religious events. As long as they are legal and organised correctly we will support them."

Mr Freely said he was in the process of setting up a committee and was unable to comment at this stage.