A man shouting “homosexuality is a sin” and numerous other phrases was removed from the Pride event in Swindon on Saturday (12 August).
Police officers forcibly removed the man from Queens Park after he offended the masses at the LGBTIQA+ gathering which claims to celebrate “freedom, diversity, equality and uniqueness”.
In videos seen by Wiltshire 999s, the man appears to be shouting into a microphone as he joined the parade through Swindon town centre and Regent Circus.
Wearing a Reclaim the Rainbow t-shirt, he said: “The Bible says homosexuality is a sin, adultery is a sin and that’s according to the Bible, that’s according to the Bible.”
He also shouted: “Your a man in a dress and everyone knows it”. And as those taking part shouted “love is love”, the man can be heard shouting back: “Tell that to a paedophile”.
As the man preached in Regent Circus, PCSO Lee Hare appeared to place himself in front of the man, whilst PCSO Kate Jackson repeatedly blows a whistle in a bid to cover his words.
Eventually, around one hour later, the man was forcibly removed from Queens Park by police officers – where the main event was being held and told not to return.
Wiltshire Police have been approached for comment.
In a statement on social media following the event, the force said: “Your local [Neighbourhood Policing Team] and the Wiltshire Police LGBT Network had an amazing time supporting Swindon and Wiltshire Pride yesterday!
“We discussed matters such as hate crime, domestic abuse, youth projects, recruitment as well as supporting in the running of this event.
“Chief Constable Roper also attended lived (sic) the atmosphere. Well done to all involved in the organisation of this community event!”
