Well, I'm no longer a virgin! My first ever Pride! So, here's some random thoughts.

A fabulous sunny day brought out marchers and supporters in their thousands. We met initially at the Scottish Parliament, listened to some speeches and then walked a mile or so up to the University where the main celebrations were being held. Yes, only a mile or so but hard work in the heat on an uphill cobbled road; glad I left the stilettos at home.

Outside the University buildings was the main square and stage where there were some really good entertainers including Atomic Kitten (though I'd left for home before they came on stage). Inside were two floors of stands by various organisations.

Inevitably, being close to the election, the speeches by many organisations and parties had a very political tone. Particularly noted that the Liberal Democrats are the only party which recognise a trans woman as a woman and a trans man as a man. True? And the Labour speaker was most rousing and supportive (someone shouted, "Have you told any of this to Starmer?").

While I assumed that the march itself would be more LGB than T, I was delighted that so many of the placards and most of the chanting related to trans rights.

And yes, mainly young people (most are at my age) so we can be optimistic about the future but in our lifetimes? Trans acceptance is maybe thirty years behind gay acceptance, I think. But maybe attitudes change more quickly now. Let's hope so.

And I don't believe that everything is rosy for young trans people. It does depend where they live. It also depends on the attitudes of family, friends, teachers, employers etc, etc. Many still need help.

Clearly, we are quite well off in Scotland for local trans groups. We also have Scottish Trans Alliance, which deals specifically with trans issues and the Equality Network dealing more generally with LGBTI issues.

Somewhat embarrassed about the low profile of the Beaumont up here. Hey, I do my best but.....!

Note to self (and to anyone who's read this far) do we have Scottish Trans Alliance and Equality Network on our magazine mailing list?

Carol told me that I couldn't come home unless I got a photo with John Swinney, so I did. I've actually chatted with him a few times before in drab but didn't mention this to him (or offer to lend him a wig).

So, a fabulous day leaving me with great memories and much to contemplate.