THE first ever Melksham Pride event, celebrating the local lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, will be held in 2022.
The event promises to be one to remember with live entertainment, stalls, competitions, information on LGBT issues, and rainbow-filled fun for all the family.
The Melksham Pride Festival, organised by Proud Melksham – the new local group launched last year – will be held on Sunday 12th June in the Assembly Hall.
“We couldn’t be happier to announce that Proud Melksham will be hosting our very first Pride Festival,” said founder of Proud Melksham, Ryan Clarke.
“We have been working on the planning of the event over the last few months, and thanks to the support of Melksham Town Council, who approved our grant application – which included 135 signatures of support from the local community – we are now able to bring Pride to Melksham for the very first time.
“Join us at the Melksham Assembly Hall for a fun-filled day for all the family! We will have a variety of stalls featuring local businesses, as well as local and national charities. We are aiming to provide as great a mix as possible of clothing, jewellery, accessories and gifts.
“Our ‘Health & Wellbeing Zone’ will be offering help and advice on sexual and mental health, victim support, and information on LGBT+ rights and issues.
“A ‘Youth Zone’ will feature activities, face painting and storybook reading aimed at educating young people about the LGBT+ community. We will also be showcasing the work of local schools who will be joining us to celebrate Pride.
“We invite you to enjoy a coffee and cake in our social space, somewhere to make new friends and to enjoy the music and atmosphere of the day. At the core of what Proud Melksham does is reminding those in the community that you are not alone – making friends and sharing experiences and advice is a great way to improve your mental wellbeing.
“On the main stage enjoy entertainment and competitions held throughout the day hosted by our resident drag queen.
“And of course, enjoy a selection of rainbow and LGBT+ themed products brought to you by Proud Melksham.
“Pride is a celebration of who you are and what makes you unique, we welcome each and every one of you and really can’t wait to share this event with you all.
“More details will follow as we head towards June, so keep an eye on our social media @ProudMelksham to learn more, we will be confirming the line-up of stalls and events in the new year, and we will have some big names for you!
“If you are a local business, charity or entertainer who would like to get involved with the festival, please email support@proudmelksham.com or contact us on Facebook/Instagram: @ProudMelksham
“We are looking not just for stall holders, but volunteers for the day itself, raffle prizes and donations, any way you can help is much appreciated.
“Together we can make a difference.
“As we head towards Melksham Pride Festival don’t forget we hold a monthly coffee meet, providing an opportunity to make friends and socialise in a safe space.
“Our meets are open to everyone in the LGBT+ community, and to all those who support us. Our next meet is a little later due to Christmas, and will be held on Saturday 22nd January, from 2-4pm at Gonjoo Cafe in the high street.
“Be brave, be you, be proud.”
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