HUNDREDS turned out for a “fabulous” celebration of love for the LGBT community.

Eastleigh Pride returned for the second year running to bring the town alive with colour and celebrations.

Organised by Eastleigh BID, the event was reportedly bigger than last year’s with more than 8,000 people flocking to the Leigh Road Recreation Ground on Saturday.

The lineup included performances from Solent Gay Mans Chorus, Lemon Drizzle, Kylie on Show, Sally Monella, Misty Lee, Aura Jay, The Jays, Adam all and Oxfordshire Drag Collective.

After the main celebration finished, venues across Eastleigh stayed open so people could continue the party until late.

Kerri, from Romsey, said: “It is the first time I have come to Eastleigh Pride. We came to show our support for the LGBT community. It’s an amazing event.”

Bhavin Dedhia from Southampton said: “It is fabulous that the town recognises the LGBT community. The atmosphere is amazing and very family-friendly. It’s a community orientated. I hope that next year there will be a parade.”

Sarah Denton, from Southampton, added: “I think it’s really important to represent the gay community. It’s great to see everyone getting together and celebrating.”

Marketing and events manager at Eastleigh BID, Emily Reason, said: “After the huge response and amount of people who attended the event last year, we really feel there is a huge desire to bring it back this year, and even bigger.

“There was a real sense of community in the atmosphere on the day of Eastleigh Pride 2018, the amount of love and acceptance was absolutely outstanding. We have been working hard to make sure we create the same family-friendly atmosphere but with more glitz and glam. We aim to celebrate the achievements of the LGBTQ+ community and to educate all on the struggles that have been faced. We will be welcoming everyone to celebrate the day and how far the community has come.”

Last year revellers reported that the event “exceeded their expectations”.

According to organisers, the event aims to bring together different communities, to accept the whole LGBT community and eliminate prejudices.

Thousands of members from the LGBT community flooded the heart of Southampton with rainbows and love.

More than 12,000 people celebrated the fourth Southampton Pride at Guildhall Square on August 24.

Celebrations lasted for most of the day with headliners S Club performing at 8.30pm.