Diversity and equality celebrated at Big Gay Out event held at north Norfolk country estate

Foulsham couple James Cooper and Colin Ferris at the Stody Lodge Gardens Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

Stody Lodge Gardens, near Holt, teamed up with Norwich Pride to organise the Big Gay Out, an inclusive event for lesbian, bisexual, gay and trans people and their friends and families.

Colin Ferris, who lives at Foulsham with his partner of 11 years, James Cooper, said that in rural areas, opportunities for LGBT people were limited.

Sing With Pride performing at the Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

He added: 'It's nice to not to feel judged and to feel accepted and, as we are both really keen gardeners, it is wonderful to be in such beautiful surroundings.'

Norwich Pride organising team member Michelle Savage, who performed at the Big Gay Out with the Sing With Pride choir, said 'We wanted to take Pride out into the countryside and, judging by the number of happy, smiling LGBT couples, families and groups of friends, it has obviously made a difference.'

Soaking up the atmosphere at the Stody Lodge Gardens Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

Norwich Pride runs on July 28. For more information, visit www.norwichpride.org.uk Stody Lodge Gardens will be open daily until May 28, for more information, visit www.stodyestate.co.uk

Rainbow cakes on sale in aid of Norwich Pride at the Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

Rainbow cakes on sale in aid of Norwich Pride at the Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

Sing With Pride choir performing at the Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

Visitors to the Big Gay Out enjoying the spectacular azaleas and rhododendrons at Stody Lodge GardensPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

Sing with Pride choir pose for a photo at the Stody Lodge Gardens Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

Rainbow cakes on sale in aid of Norwich Pride at the Big Gay OutPhoto: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)