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
3-kilometre route through the city centre.

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

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 event's organizers, said the march had been a success: "It's time for Hong Kong to have a regular pride parade just like other modern Asian cities." (dpa)