THE SHOW will go on for Warwickshire Pride after the annual festival received lottery funding.
A grant of more than £4,000 has been handed over to ensure the celebration of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) life and culture goes ahead.
Revellers flock to the Pump Room Gardens in Leamington each summer to enjoy the festival, which is now in its sixth year.
The money will be used for hire costs and pay for first aid, safety barriers and promotion of the festival, which this year takes place on Saturday August 18.
Chair of trustees Daniel Browne said: “Warwickshire Pride is now in its sixth year and is growing in popularity each time.
“Each year the costs and people’s expectations rise, but funding the festival becomes more difficult to achieve. So we are thrilled and relieved to be receiving a grant.”
Daniel said the festival was more than just an event, it also supported the wellbeing of LGBT people.
He added: “Warwickshire Pride is an important local event for LGBT people and the wider community. Hate crimes against LGBT people are rising, and they are more likely to experience social isolation and mental health issues.
“The festival provides a safe, welcoming space where all people are welcome and where LGBT people can be who they are. This in turn has a positive impact on their wellbeing and it’s nice for the wider community to be part of the celebrations.”
The event costs some £10,000 to put on and organisers are now calling on businesses to support Warwickshire Pride and for volunteers to help ensure it runs smoothly.
Visit www.warwickshirepride.co.uk or email [email protected] to find out more.
