So another Gay Pride Parade and Carnival is just around the corner. Great. Anything that adds a touch of colour and happiness to this life is to be welcomed.

It gives many people a lot of enjoyment and also raises a considerable amount of money for various charities. Obviously a very good thing.

But why the word Pride? Why is someone proud to be homosexual, lesbian etc? I'm heterosexual but I'm not proud of it - it's just what I am, the way my genes were formed.

There is nothing to be proud about in your sexuality, it's just what you are.

Surely, now that homosexuals and lesbians are generally accepted, there is no need for the word Pride?

After all, people like the Brighton Lions and the Round Table do not use the word when they hold parades and carnivals.

Still, I hope this year's event is a great success.

-Ron Jameson, Hove