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Village's first Pride event organised in 14 weeks

BBC A colourful banner advertising Holmes Chapel Pride on Saturday 28 September at the Village Centre.BBC
Organisers say the first Holmes Chapel Pride will stand out as a beacon of acceptance, understanding and pride.

Holmes Chapel will hold its first Pride event on Saturday - just 14 weeks after a drag queen asked why the Cheshire village did not have one in its annual diary.

Organising committee member Alison Wright said the celebration at Holmes Chapel Village Centre would be "a beacon of acceptance, understanding and pride for all of us, irrespective of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, age or religion".

She said it had been "really heartwarming to see the support that’s already there in our community".

The event, which is now intended to become an annual one, was organised in less than four months after people rallied to offer help, advice and financial support.

Holmes Chapel Pride committee member Alison Wright, wearing a grey hoodie and black gilet, smiles as she poses for the camera.
Alison Wright said Pride would now be in Holmes Chapel's annual calendar

“A drag queen asked the question 'Why doesn’t Holmes Chapel have a Pride event?', said Alison.

"We couldn’t answer, so we thought the best thing we can do is put it out to the community.

“We have had people offering to volunteer, stepping up with help and advice, providing financial support, and promising to come and support us on the day."

Alison said she was "very excited - it’s been so good to be part of the organising committee from the start and for this to be the first Pride in Holmes Chapel is very, very special."

'Party'

The founder of nearby Sandbach Pride, Lucy Oliver, will cut a rainbow ribbon to open the event.

Organisers said visitors could expect a lively atmosphere filled with live music, food, and a selection of stalls showcasing local businesses and crafts.

A road closure will be in place from 15:00 BST to 19:00 for safety reasons, allowing the creation of a pedestrianised area.

"Although the road closure ends at 7pm, the party will continue in the different pubs and bars," explained Alison.

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