Campaigner's dream to launch first Gay Pride festival in Worksop

A Worksop campaigner is urging residents and businesses to help her make history and celebrate diversity by launching the town's first ever Gay Pride festival.
Crystal Lucas who is organised a Gay Pride event in Worksop.Crystal Lucas who is organised a Gay Pride event in Worksop.
Crystal Lucas who is organised a Gay Pride event in Worksop.

Crystal Lucas is hoping to hold the event at the Masonic Hall this summer, and is now reaching out to the Worksop community for support in making her project a reality.

Crystal, who lives in Worksop, said: “To sum it all up, founding the first gay pride here has now become my dream.

“I have been to Pride festivals up and down the country, such as Manchester Pride, and have always had a fantastic time.

“While I’m there, I can be me. I truly feel safe, and I’d love to bring that kind of atmopshere to Worksop for our LGBT residents.

“I believe that our town has come a long way in terms of celebrating diversity and people from all different backgrounds, and I’m surprised Pride hasn’t come here yet. I’d like to be the person to make that happen.”

Chesterfield celebrated its first Gay Pride last year, and Crystal said its success had ‘spurred her on’.

“I’m not aiming too big,” she added. “But I’d love to get a few thousand people through the gates.”

“I expect that I might encounter a few people who won’t be happy with what I’m planning to do, but I’ve already received a ton of support from businesses anf entertianers in the area which has encouraged me firther.

“A professional singer and entertainer, Sunny Daye, who also lives in Worksop, has agreed to host and perform at the event.

“A Worksop pub have agreed to sponsor a headline act and provide a venue for the after-show party.

“And I have Adele and Paloma Faith tribute acts lined up, which is really exciting.”

Crystal is now looking for additional funding, sponsorship from businesses, entertainment acts and traders to operate stalls at the Masonic Hall during the festival.

Anyone interested in being involved should email her at [email protected] or leave her a message on her Facebook at www.facebook.com/Worksop-Pride.

Worksop Pride will take place at the Masonic Hallon Sunday, July 10 from12pm to 6pm.