A council has raised the rainbow flag for the second time in a “simple but powerful gesture” to support civil rights.

Epping Forest District Council flew the rainbow flag outside the civic offices, in High Street yesterday in support of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender (LGBT) history month.

The rainbow flag is a symbol of LGBT pride and promotes awareness of its social movements.

A council spokesperson said: "Raising the flag underlines the council’s commitment to equality for all and is a simple gesture, yet a powerful way to show our support to the LGBT community in the district.”

Councillor John Philip, portfolio holder for equality, said within the council chamber you will find councillors of "many different political colours and persuasions".

He said: “In a world where the dark shadow of intolerance dominates the nightly news, we take pride in flying the Rainbow Flag from the council offices and the message it sends of peace, fairness and equality for all.

“Whilst we only fly the flag for a day, our work to raise awareness of discrimination and to promote tolerance, goes on the year round.”