A MONTHLY LGBT night is celebrating its first anniversary - 50 years after homosexuality was legalised in this country.

Out in Taunton social night meets to socialise and promote awareness of issues upstairs at the Winchester Arms, on Castle Green, on the first Friday of the month.

Peter Routley, who organised the venture with Lindsay Pickering, said: "While the UK has seen massive changes in terms of the acceptance of same-sex relationships such as the legalisation of same-sex marriage, there is still much to be done and we really felt there was a gap, certainly in Taunton but also in the county for a place to meet like minded people for a safe night out.

"There is no intention of hiding in the shadows, and it’s only by walking hand in hand in the town and being confident to be as open as any other couple on a night out in existing venues that people will get used to it.

"But the reality is there is still plenty of awkwardness and sadly, not everyone has come round to the idea that ‘love is love’.

"Out in Taunton welcomes all ages of people who identify as LGBT+ and their friends, to come along and enjoy music, have fun and build friendships."

A free-entry anniversary night, Straight Out of the 80s, is taking place at the Winchester Arms on Friday, September 1, from 8pm to 1am.