WIGAN Council is to fly the flag for the gay community.

The rainbow flag will flutter from the Wigan town hall for one day in September to support the first Lancashire Gay Pride initiative.

Traditionally events have focused on Manchester city centre's gay village, but this month towns around the county will host a programme of events.

On every day during the month there will be events including a barge party, film evenings, social and sports events.

The aim is to provide opportunities for gay people to meet and find support from each other, to improve the visibility of gay people in local communities and to challenge services to respond to their needs.

An event spokesperson said: "Gay people pay taxes too.

"Wigan Council has recognised the responsibility it has to its gay residents and taken up the cause by flying the flag."

The rainbow flag is a symbol of the right of people from the whole range of sexualities to be recognised and included in society.

For anyone wishing to take part in the events the nearest number to ring is Project Oscar on 0800 7835345.