Over 7,000 people are expected to attend Pride in Gloucester, now in its 18th year, which aims to boost visibility of the LGBTQ+ community.
A colourful Pride parade will today weave its way through the city and pop duo The Cheeky Girls will headline the music stage.
“Visibility is important to create a safe space for people, but for the wider community to learn more about what it’s like being LGBTQ+,” said Pride in Gloucester chair Richard Stevens.
Organisers promise today’s Pride event is as inclusive as possible.
“We have a youth zone, a family area and a speaker’s corner for debates.
“The idea is that we can grow but keep it inclusive, everyone is welcome and it’s a safe space for our community,” Richard added.
“People come up to me and they say that because of Pride they were able to accept themselves for who they are.
“Pride has literally saved people’s lives when they were in such a bad place mentally.
“Seeing everyone at events like this and being happy in themselves is just an amazing feeling.
“Lots of people said they are excited we are coming back,” he added.
