Lancaster City Council has hit back at criticism after flying the Pride flag over Morecambe Town Hall to mark Morecambe Pride — with supporters and opponents clashing in the comments of the council's social media post.
The council shared a message on Facebook this week saying it was "delighted" to raise the rainbow flag over the weekend as the town came together to celebrate the event, describing it as a way of showing support for the LGBTQ+ community and "celebrating equality, inclusion and the diversity that strengthens our district."
But the post quickly attracted angry responses, with one commenter arguing: "The only flag raised should be the Union Jack and the English flag."
The council was swift to respond, asking: "Presumably that means you don't think we should raise the Armed Forces Day flag — as we will be doing later this month — either?"
The exchange drew a wave of support for the council from other users.
One wrote: "People who call others 'snowflakes' etc., getting mad about a flag that will be up for a month or so that doesn't personally affect them in any way.
"It's okay, seeing a flag won't make you LGBTQ, neither will a bus livery.
"Do you have the same energy when the council fly a flag for the NHS, or a different one for Armed Forces Day?"
Another added: "Thanks for flying the flag — it's really important, especially considering loving who you want is criminalised in so many countries."
One commenter offered a more sardonic take, writing: "I saw a flag I don't like and now my whole week is ruined somehow."
Others spoke of how the negativity in the thread only reinforced their view that events such as Pride were still needed.
"Why in 2026 are LGBTQ+ individuals still needing to fight to be heard and included in a world where no two people are the same?" wrote one user.
"The comments in this feed make me feel so hurt and angry."
Another added simply: "This comment section is exactly why this is needed."
The council said that flying the Pride flag was one of several ways it marks important events and causes throughout the year, with flags raised at its buildings to show solidarity with a range of communities and organisations.
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The debate comes as Pride season gets into full swing across the district. Morecambe Pride took place on Saturday, May 30, this year carrying the theme 'Bring Me Sunshine' — a nod to the late comedian Eric Morecambe, who would have celebrated his 100th birthday this year.
The event began with a 'Sunshine Parade' along Morecambe Promenade from the Town Hall to The Alhambra, followed by live music, drag, spoken word and community performances.
Lancaster Pride is set to follow on Sunday, June 14, with organisers Out in the Bay planning a city centre parade and entertainment in Dalton Square, marking the event's 10th anniversary.
Organisers say the event will once again be free to attend and have described it as "a day for our LGBTQ+ community and allies to come together, celebrate who we are, and be yourself in a safe, welcoming space".
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