Plea issued to save annual 'lifeline' Pride event

Arran Hart is urging people to support Lincoln Pride 2025

The director of Lincoln Pride is calling for help to prevent the "lifeline" LGBTQ+ event from being cancelled.

The annual celebration, which attracted more than 8,500 people last year, is at risk of not going ahead this year due to financial issues.

In a statement, Lincoln Pride said it had "turned to the community" for support as "many of our usual sponsors are unfortunately unable to help due to budget constraints".

Arran Hart, director of community engagement for the event, said the committee had scaled back its costs from £85,000 to £50,000 in a bid to save it.

The celebration, due to take place on 16 August, includes a parade through the city before the main event, with stage performances at Tentercroft Street car park.

Mr Hart said the event's infrastructure alone cost £45,000.

"All these things rapidly add up, and that's before you put a single person on that stage," he said.

"The event could happen if we had £50,000 but it wouldn't be on the same scale."

But he added: "We're a big believer that Pride should happen, even if it means we have to change the format."

The event attracted 8,500 people last year

Mr Hart said attendees included people on days out.

"But some of them will there because, like 16-year-old me, it will be their lifeline for the year that makes them feel not alone," he said.

"We've come so far in a county that has traditionally not always been as accepting."

Joshua Wells, the City of Lincoln Council's portfolio holder for inclusive economic growth, said: "We'll continue to work with [Lincoln Pride organisers] and help them find other options financially through this process."

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