A GROUP of around 40 people met to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance in Highbridge last week.

The event took place on Sunday, November 20, at the Southwell House and was also attended by members of Pride-on-Sea.

A Pride-on-Sea spokesperson said they believe this event was the first time the day has been marked with a public ceremony in Somerset.

During the ceremony, a candle in the colours of the Trans flags was lit and the names of 389 people who had died because of anti-trans violence and abuse around the world, were read aloud.

At the end of the ceremony a short silence was kept. Members of the Pride-on-Sea group were overwhelmed by the support shown by the community we live in.

A spokesperson for the group also said: “We are thrilled that supporters from other parts of Somerset also attended. We would also like to thank those organisations and individuals who have helped organise today's event.

“Sadly, today we have heard about yet another shooting at a LGBT+ venue in the USA, a reminder of the importance of today's ceremony.

“Our thoughts are, once again, with members of the LGBT+ community and their families in the United States.

“The Pride-on-Sea team is now looking forward to, and busy organising, our other events in the build-up to the first Highbridge and Burnham Pride Day in summer 2023.”