Orange is the New Black actress kicks off Manchester Pride

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a pink background.

Manchester Pride has kicked off today with thousands of revellers, and a parade led by Orange is the New Black’s Lea DeLaria.

Comedian Lea DeLaria – who plays fan favourite Big Boo on the Netflix series – served as Grand Marshal for the event.

DeLaria led the procession through the city to applause from pride-goers.

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After the parade today, pride celebrations this weekend include a screening of the new season of Doctor Who, and performances by Eurovision winner Conchita Wurst and singer Anastasia.

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Edwina Currie at Manchester Pride

All Saints, Neon Jungle, Foxes are also on the line-up for the annual event, alongside former X Factor contestants Marcus Collins, Lucy Spraggan and Rowetta, and British four-piece girl group Neon Jungle.

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The Warwick Rowers at Manchester Pride

Celebrations will take place all weekend from 22-25 August.

The Pride festival released 300 discounted day tickets for the Big Weekend, available to Greater Manchester residents who are undergoing financial hardship.

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Image: Twitter user @LaurenceGHulse