BY 3.30am last night there had been 30 arrests for suspected offences related to possession of drugs, assault, sexual assault, drunk and disorderly and public disorder at Pride.

Brighton and Hove welcomed around 300,000 people into the city centre on Saturday for the biggest event in the city’s calendar- Pride.

Chief Superintendent Neil Honnor said: "This is one of the biggest policing operations we manage every year, and it could not happen without the support and hard work from all of the partner agencies involved.

“We would like to extend our thanks to all those involved including South East Coast ambulance, East Sussex Fire and Rescue, St John Ambulance, British Transport Police and Pride.

"I am also hugely proud of the officers who have been policing Pride this year, many of whom worked very long and busy shifts in this hot weather but remained positive and professional throughout.

“Thousands of people travelled from far and wide to attend the event today and the overwhelming majority of people who have come to Pride have been excellent.

“However, officers have made a number of arrests today for a variety of offences, which can be expected at such a large event.

"As the weekend continues I would urge people to please take care of themselves and each other. If you have come to the city with friends then stick together, have fun but make sure you all go home together - I don't want anyone to end up with not so pleasant memories of their Pride weekend.

"A visible presence of officers will remain throughout the city with plenty on hand to help if you need it. So, please do not hesitate to approach an officer if you have any concerns or need to report a crime."