The Congleton community came together to remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS.

Congleton Pride invited members of the public to join a short vigil on World AIDS Day, November 1.

On a wet night in the Community Garden, those in attendance lit candles under their umbrellas and spent some time together in reflection.

Across the road, the Town Hall flew the World AIDS Day flag.

Town Councillor and Pride member Kay Wesley said: "We live in a world where great progress has been made both in HIV treatments and in LGBTQIA+ rights.

"But today we see that both are under threat.

"In many parts of the world it is still illegal to live as your true self.

"In addition, we see international funding to combat HIV through major players like the World Health Organisation being cut, with potentially devastating impact.

"We will continue to be vigilant in lobbying for better healthcare and fighting for equality."

Over 44 million people worldwide have died of HIV/AIDS related illnesses and an estimated 40.8 million people are currently living with HIV.

Here in Cheshire East, HIV rates are lower than average overall, but this means that outcomes may be worse due to late diagnosis.

Those diagnosed late are ten times more likely to die within one year of diagnosis than those diagnosed promptly.

Speaking at the vigil, the Reverand Murray George of Congleton URC said: "After, many years where progress has been made in the worlds response to HIV it feels now that many support services are being put on hold and funding stopped. Many communities across the world face increased risk and diminished assistance.

"However, despite the threats and challenges hope remains. There is still much determination, resilience and innovation in communities who strive to bring about an end to AIDS.

"On this World Aids Day, we remember all who have died as a result of this disease. We recognise the global inequalities in the treatment and care of those living with and dying from AIDS today.

"We give thanks for significant improvements in diagnoses and treatments that have contributed to saving the lives of many people. We honour the courage and passion of campaigners and activists who continue to work in the face of stigma and bigotry.

"We pray that the hopeful target of zero transmissions of this disease by 2030 may still be met."