Bosses at Oldham Pride claim they have been told that a Pride-themed police car has been banned from this weekend’s event due to concerns over ‘hate crime’.
Reverend David Austin, the Chair of Oldham Pride, said he was informed on Monday (July 18) that Greater Manchester Police has banned its rainbow liveried police car from taking part in Oldham Pride’s parade, alongside future Pride parades in the city-region.
Rev Austin said he was told the decision was made due to incidents of ‘hate crime’ against the police, including assaults and vehicle damage following attendance at Pride events. The Chair described the move as a ‘worrying development’ and a ‘home goal’ by GMP’s Chief Constable Stephen Watson.
