HAMPSHIRE Pride has been shortlisted for a national award.

The celebration of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community has been nominated in the Community Organisation category at the National Diversity Awards.

This year’s event, which was a collaboration between Hampshire County Council and the University of Winchester, included a weekend march of nearly 500 people in Winchester and an extensive events programme.

First held in 2015, the now annual event brings together people from across the county and highlights the contribution of the LGBT community through various events, including a symposium, and the Pride Parade through Winchester.

Hampshire Pride is organised by the Hampshire LGBT Alliance, including representatives from HCC’s LGBT employee network and the University of Winchester’s LGBTI Spectrum Student, Staff and Allies Network.

The winner of these awards will be selected by a public vote – with voting open until June 9.

HCC leader Cllr Roy Perry said: “I am delighted Hampshire Pride has been shortlisted for this prestigious award – and that the event’s commitment to inclusivity, equality and diversity is being recognised at a national level.”

Professor Elizabeth Stuart, deputy vice-chancellor and senior diversity champion at the University of Winchester, said: “Hampshire Pride’s nomination for a National Diversity Award is testament to its inspirational message of inclusion, diversity and equality and the outstanding achievement of the grassroots community behind it.”

To vote visit nationaldiversityawards.co.uk