Hong Kong  - Around 1,000 people took part in Hong Kong's first gay pride march, organizers of the event in the conservative former British colony estimated Sunday.

Gay, lesbian and bisexual marchers from mainland China and Taiwan joined Hong Kong groups for Saturday's event which saw colourfully dressed participants walk a two-mile route through the city centre.

Bystanders looked on in bemusement as the first event of its kind unfolded in the city where traditional taboos mean many gay people are afraid to let families and work colleagues know their sexuality.

March organizers made headlines ahead of Saturday's march when they were refused permission to hire a double-decker bus from a leading Hong Kong bus operator for the event.

Connie Chan, one of the organizers, called the march a success. "It's time for Hong Kong to have a regular pride parade just like other modern Asian cities." (dpa)