Boys in blue are in the pink as gay flag flies over police HQ

FIFTEEN years ago, it took centre stage amid allegations that a "magic circle" of gay judges was holding sway over the Scottish legal system.

Then, just last month, the police headquarters at Fettes were in the headlines after a senior officer was entered into the world's sexiest gay man competition.

Now, as proof, if it were needed, of changing times, the force is flying the rainbow flag of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community above the HQ in Fettes Avenue.

Lothian and Borders Police, which was named Scotland's best employer for lesbian, gay and bisexual people earlier this year, raised the flag to mark LGBT History Month.

The move is said to have upset some officers for religious reasons, but has been praised by gay rights campaigners.

Chief Inspector David Lyle, who campaigns for gay rights in the force, said: "The contribution of LGBT people is often forgotten or ignored. It's great the police is able to recognise those efforts.

"It sends out the message of support to staff members and the wider public that the force is committed to diversity and equality.

"I'm sad if some people are unhappy about the flag for religious reasons, but I know many religious people who do not feel it goes against their faith and they are very supportive."

Earlier this month, Chief Insp Lyle said he was flattered someone had nominated him for the Sex Factor 2008 contest, hosted by dating site Gaydar.

Christina Stokes, spokeswoman for LGBT campaign group Stonewall Scotland, said: "It's great that Lothian and Borders Police is flying the rainbow flag during LGBT History Month.

"Historically, LGBT people have had good reason to mistrust the police, but Lothian and Borders have been working hard to build up trust and show they will treat everyone equally."

But some Catholic and Muslim officers and support staff are understood to object to the move.

A former employee at Fettes said he had spoken to current workers about the flag. He said: "There are members of staff who feel this was insensitive for religious reasons. Some have deep personal convictions and this flies against that.

"One person has already walked out in protest at this."

The alleged "magic circle" of gay judges were accused of treating homosexual criminals leniently in a report stolen from the police HQ more than 15 years ago.