Richmond is blazing a trail for LGBTQ+ rights after unveiling two eye-catching 'rainbow crossings'.

They have been installed outside Richmond Station and on King Street in Twickenham.

The crossings feature the colours of the internationally recognised Pride Flag which has come to symbolise diversity and represent the LGBTQ+ community worldwide.

Cllr Alexander Ehmann of Richmond Council said: "Here in Richmond we are hugely proud to show our support for the LGBTQ+ community.

"Our borough has a long history of supporting diversity and equality, so I'm delighted to be able to announce our first rainbow crossings.

"We want all our residents and communities to know that we are here with them, we support them, and we are working hard to make sure our borough is a place where people feel safe, free from discrimination and proud to be themselves."

Sophie Robbins, chair of the South West London LGBT+ Support Group, said: "The rainbow crossings couldn't have come at a better time for the LGBTQ+ community in the borough and beyond.

"Unfortunately, we're seeing big rises in homophobic, biphobic and transphobic hate.

"They're a beautiful, bright public statement of the tolerant society of friendship and mutual respect we all want to see.

"I would encourage other councils in south-west London and elsewhere to follow Richmond's example."