Former deputy council leader Angela Mason joins Peter Tatchell at the alternative march [Simon Lamrock]

ORIGINAL Pride protesters from 50 years ago who say the celebrations have become “depoliticised and commercialised” led an alternative march on the day before the main event.

Hundreds joined in with veteran activist Peter Tatchell and Angela Mason, the former Stonewall director who went on to become the deputy leader of Camden Council, at the front holding placards reading “I was there in 1972”.

They followed the exact route from half a century ago, from Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross Road, Oxford Street and to Hyde Park. It had been very much a protest in its original edition.

Mr Tatchell said: “Pride in London has become depoliticised and commercialised.

“This veterans’ march has no corporate sponsors and no police, arms manufacturers or fossil fuel companies.

He added: “Unlike the official Pride in London, there is no limit on the number of people allowed to march. No fees, registrations or wrist-bands.”

Mr Tatchell and others did then join the Pride march, saying it would not be right for the co-founders not to be there on the 50th anniversary.

Camden Council joins the official march on Saturday

For the second time in the event’s history, Camden Council, which features on Stonewall’s

top LGBT+ employers list, entered its own delegation into Saturday’s main march through London with support from councillors of all parties.

Rishi winner

Rishi Madlani was applauded at Monday’s full council meeting

A COUNCILLOR is celebrating after he won a gong at the British LGBT+ awards.

Rishi Madlani joined diver Tom Daley, singer Lady Gaga and radio presenter Adele Roberts on the list of winners, taking the “inspirational leader” award at a glitzy ceremony last week.