The results from the largest ever British-based lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans survey has just been published and shows that that most of the LGBT people who attended Brighton & Hove Pride 2004, where the survey was carried our, are in relationships, 14% of lesbians have dependant children and that a lesbian 'blue pound' does exist but not to the same degree as the gay male 'pink pound'.

However, the results also showed that on the flip side there are a sizeable proportion of LGBT people that do not have high disposable incomes.

"This is an under-researched area, where figures on LGBT populations are difficult to attain and often stereotypes predominate,” a statement from the researchers said.

“The finding that a 'pink pound' does exist is relatively unsurprising, as are the gender variances in this data (reflecting gender differences in paid employment).

“However, the fact that some lesbians also have high disposable incomes or the 'blue pound' is interesting and highlights an area that very little is known about.

“On the reverse side, the assumption of a universal 'pink/blue pound' hides the disparities between LGBT people and negates some real poverty and economic issues."

The research was undertaken at Preston Park on 7 August 2004 where official estimates place the number of Pride attendees at over 100,000. In total, 7210 questionnaires were completed which asked for opinions on Pride, spending patterns and information regarding LGBT populations.

Results indicate that although the Festival looks set to grow in size, if Pride charges for entry it might compromise its diversity since significant proportions of attendees are not willing to pay for entry especially local residents and those with lower incomes or disabilities.

Furthermore, the findings point to the festival's cultural and political importance as a celebration of LGBT life and show that visitors to Pride inject at least £3.1 million into the local economy.

The survey was carried out by the Geography Division, University of Brighton and funded by the University of Brighton Community University Partnership, Brighton and Hove Visitor and Convention Bureau, and Brighton and Hove City Council Chief Executive's Policy Team.