Historic launch of Worksop's first Gay Pride equality parade

Worksop Pride, which took place last year, marked the first Gay Pride festival in the town’s history and was a huge success – with residents, businesses and councillors throwing their weight behind the event.

Rainbow LGBT flags lined Bridge Street for the first time, and supporters enjoyed a full day of entertainment and activities at the Masonic Hall.

Crystal Lucas, who founded the family-friendly festival from scratch, consulted with members of the district’s LGBT community for ideas on how she could give this year’s festival some “extra oomph”.

“Moving forward from the success of the first ever Worksop Pride, we wanted to establish a bigger inclusivity and presence within the LGBT community,” said Crystal.

“Since the last Worksop Pride we have had lots of messages about what people would like to see.

“We have had numerous discussions and we have lots of things planned to move Worksop Pride forward.

“As a start we have invited Worksop’s Centre Place, which offers support to LGBT youngsters in Bassetlaw, to organise a North Nottinghamshire equality parade. This year’s festival will be as vibrant as the last with children’s rides, food outlets, stalls and entertainment until 6pm.

“We also have a special celebrity guest singer this year, yet to be announced.”

The parade will start at the bottom of Bridge Place, near Argos, at around 11.30am and walk through to the town centre to Market Square, where the festival will get underway at 12pm.

Residents and organisations are encouraged to take part in the parade and show their solidarity. A booking form is required to do this, which can be obtained from [email protected] or [email protected].

You can also find Worksop Pride on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WorksopPride and on Twitter @WorksopPride.