REDDITCH’S first Pride parade was hailed a success, with over 1,000 people attending the event.
The parade made its way from the Town Hall at 11am walking through the Kingfisher Centre and then onto Church Green where there was a stage with live acts performing music, comedy, and speeches.
There was community and business stalls in and around Church Green for visitors to shop and find information as well as hot and cold food stalls leading down to the Canopies and local businesses had Pride themed events and products in their shops.
Organiser Coun Joe Baker, whose band Red Vengeance headlined the event, said: “The event could not have gone any better, it was amazing to see all the people supporting Redditch – it was one to remember.
“There were people from many different areas of the west midlands and beyond enjoying what Redditch had on offer.
“I am so proud of the Pride committee that made this possible and I look forward to next year’s parade
“A massive thanks to all who made it possible.”
Redditch Pride 18
Rainbows a plenty. Picture by Marcus Mingins 2323002MMR18 www.buyphotos247.com
Coun Emma Marshall who was on the Pride committee said: “Looking out at a sea of colour and diversity, I am so proud of our town and the rich diverse tapestry of people who live here.
“I was over the moon to hear people saying it had been on par if not better than the Birmingham Pride event.
“We aimed to give Redditch a day to celebrate how far our country had come in the 51 years since the first ever Pride event, and thanks to every single person who attended and made it a day to remember.
“It was definitely a day of history in the making.”
Redditch MP Rachel Maclean also attended the parade.
She said: “The sun shone as Redditch hosted its first ever Pride parade. It was an honour to be there as our town joined with the rest of the country and the world to mark Pride Month.
“It was a fantastic celebration and well done to everyone who was involved in organising this fabulous event.
“The town centre was buzzing with families and people having a great day out, giving a big boost to the town centre and the local economy at the same time.”
