The UK’s first permanent ‘rainbow crossing’ has today been launched in Herne Hill, installed by Lambeth Council.

The crossing, outside Brockwell Park, was installed to show solidarity with the LGBT+ community in the borough.

Signifying equality, diversity and inclusion a rainbow crossing comprises those colours which match the internationally recognised Pride flag.

‘Walk the Rainbow’ messaging will appear throughout the borough, guiding people to the Herne Hill gate at Brockwell Park to visit the crossing, a council spokesperson said.

People are invited to share images on social media with the hashtags #WeAreLambeth and #HerneHillRainbow.

This comes as homophobic and transphobic hate crimes surge in England and Wales.

Offences double since 2014 against gay and lesbian people and treble against trans people, analysis in the Guardian revealed.

In January two men were sprayed with a corrosive substance in a homophobic attack outside McDonald's in Brixton.

Police described the incident as a “hate crime attack” and said the substance was an illegal pepper spray, according to Pink News.

The Mayor of Lambeth, Cllr Ibrahim Dogus, said: “Lambeth’s diversity has always been our strength, and we have never been afraid to show it.

“This crossing is a symbol of the pride we have in our flourishing LGBT+ community and will light up Herne Hill with its message of inclusivity.

“It is just one of the many ways that we will continue to stand in solidarity with all those who face discrimination in our borough and beyond.”

Cllr Sonia Winifred, Lambeth cabinet member for equalities and culture, said: the crossings were a “colourful and fun symbol of Lambeth’s inclusivity.”