Sutton is proud to announce it's first ever Pride crossing that can be found near the town centre.

The crossing, painted between Sutton's Civic Offices and the town centre serves as a key reminder that Sutton is open, inclusive and welcoming.

Sutton now joins one of only a handful of London councils with a permanent crossing celebrating the LGBTQ Community.

After being inspired by neighbouring boroughs, Lambeth, Greenwich, Hackney, Merton and Wandsworth- Sutton LGBTQ+ Forum decided to reach out to council members.

Thanks to the Forum's supporter Councillor Jake Short, Sutton was able to announce their very first rainbow crossing on June 24- just in time for Pride 2020.

Your Local Guardian:

Councillor, Jake Short, the Council's Equalities lead said: "I'm really thrilled that officers have been able to complete this crossing so quickly.

"It stands as a testament to how dedicated this council is to promoting equality and inclusion.

"I'm also extremely proud that we are now one of a few councils that has such a permanent reminder of that openness and inclusivity."

A spokesperson for Sutton LGBTQ+ Forum, said: "We feel that, during this terrible time of isolation and social distancing, the time is right for this.

"Having a rainbow crossing will show visitors to Sutton that we are signalling an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ communities and showing our true colours as an open, diverse and accepting borough with Pride in our hearts.

"We are pleased to mention our brand new projects: 'TranSutton': for people who identify as trans men and women, non-binary people, genderfluid people and as a crossdresser.

"And 'One to One', for those who have social anxiety, fear of new groups or social and crowded environments."

The team have relaunched their events, starting with a series of picnics - within the six people rule from the government.

For more information visit at www.suttonlgbtq.org

To join the team, contact info@suttonlgbtq.org