ONE of the UK’s largest, free LGBT festivals has teamed up with Manchester Airport to offer the chance to win a once in a lifetime trip for two to San Francisco.
Newcastle Pride, sponsored by Newcastle’s business improvement district NE1, is offering the sought-after competition prize thanks to main stage sponsor, Manchester Airport, who offer direct flights to the destination with Thomas Cook Airlines and Virgin Atlantic.
The winner of the competition will receive a £2,000 voucher to spend on flights and accommodation in the popular Californian city, which is home to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island – the site of the infamous former prison.
Those hoping to be in with a chance of winning have until May 27 to purchase raffle tickets and the winner will be announced at Newcastle cabaret venue, Boulevard.
Patrick Alexander, Head of Marketing at Manchester Airport, said: “With more than 210 direct routes to choose from at Manchester Airport, we have picked one of our newest and most exciting for this competition.
“We are delighted to be back with Newcastle Pride for our second year and I am sure everyone will love the acts on our Manchester Airport San Francisco Stage over the weekend.
“I’d like to wish everyone good luck in the competition and cannot wait to meet the winner.”
Stephen Willis, Festival Director, added: “We are excited to be working with Manchester Airport to offer this amazing competition for the second year running.
“Last year’s winner had an incredible time in San Francisco and we are thrilled to be able to offer the experience to another pair.
“Not only is it a fantastic prize but money raised through ticket sales will go to LGBT charity, Northern Pride, to help keep the festival free.”
The festival, which attracted more than 73,000 visitors in 2017 and generated more than £9.2m for the local economy, will take place on July 20-22, with a huge musical line up to be announced.
The theme of this year’s Newcastle Pride festival is celebrating 40 years of the rainbow flag, which was designed in San Francisco by LGBT activist and artist, Gilbert Baker.
The rainbow flag has become synonymous with the LGBT communities, with the different colours representing diversity.
Raffle tickets are on sale now at £1 per ticket and will be available to buy at Boulevard, Churchill St or at the Newcastle Pride office at Dance City, Temple St.
The prize can be redeemed up until the end of August 2019 and full terms and conditions are available on the Northern Pride website.