Police van emblazoned with colours of Pride

Sussex Police will show their support for the LGBT community once again this year with a Brighton Pride themed van on the Pride Parade.

Sussex Police play a large role in the policing of Pride which is one of the biggest events that takes place in Brighton and Hove each year.

Last year Chief Inspector Nev Kemp, the LGBT Champion at Sussex Police agreed to a police car being decorated with the Pride livery. He said: “We received wonderful publicity from the car for very little cost so this year we are demonstrating our support for Pride on our largest vehicle to send out the strong message that Sussex Police wholeheartedly reject the views of those who appear to be critical of our support of an LGBT event.”

A spokesperson for Sussex Police, said: “We feel it is important to promote LGBT equality within our local communities and build upon our relationship with those who come from minority groups. By taking part in the parade we hope to show that we are a supportive and open-minded organisation who the people of Sussex can trust and have confidence in.”

The cost of decorating the van and two motorbikes which will appear on the Pride Parade on Saturday, August 6 was £420 (including VAT). The artwork was completed by the company who currently hold the livery contract for Sussex Police.