A RAINBOW flag will fly over Liverpool Town Hall on Sunday to mark International Day Against Homophobia.

The city’s Lord Mayor, Cllr Steve Rotheram, is inviting members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) communities and their friends and families to visit on the day and take part in a discussion about a PRIDE festival in Liverpool.

He will also be handing over a book of condolence to the parents of murdered gay teenager Michael Causer.

Michael, 18, died on August 2 last year after being beaten in what police initially believed was a homophobic attack.

James O’Connor, 19, of Runcorn, is currently serving a life sentence after admitting murder.

An appeal has been launched against the “lenient” suspended sentence Michael Binstead, 18, received for perverting the course of justice.

Cllr Rotheram said: “I’m delighted to be Lord Mayor when the Town Hall makes history and flies the rainbow flag for the first time.

“Sunday’s event will be a great opportunity for people to not only enjoy themselves but to also get involved with shaping a future PRIDE festival in the city.

“Homophobia is unacceptable and we want to do everything we can to promote diversity in this great city – for example, we’re very proud of our annual Homotopia and Outsiders festivals which celebrate art and culture in the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community.”

Visitors to the Town Hall will be asked to take part in a short survey to share their views on where and when the city’s first ever PRIDE festival should take place, and what they would like to see at the event.

Anyone attending will also have a tour around the historic surroundings, enjoy afternoon tea and be invited to sign the book before its presentation to parents Marie and Michael.