Ely Pride celebrates its fifth event

All the colours of the rainbow will be on show in Ely on Saturday

Thousands of people are expected to turn out as a city celebrates its fifth Pride festival.

Ely Pride 2024 is taking place in the Cambridgeshire city's Jubilee Gardens from 10:00 BST on Saturday.

Organised by the charity Pride in Ely, its aim is to "create a safe space for LGBTQ+ people and the wider public".

The first Pride in Ely event took place in 2018 and after a break in 2021, is back to paint the city in all the colours of the rainbow.

Organisers said they hoped such events would help to raise awareness and "provide an opportunity for vulnerable people to explore their sexuality in a safe, family-friendly environment".

"Importantly, they have also allowed members of the public to come and learn about LGBTQ+ issues and culture... and to socialise, celebrate and interact in an LGBTQ+ safe environment."

Catherine Dixon said it was "always a joy" to attend the city's event

One of those more than happy to show her colours is Reverend Catherine Dixon, the minister at Ely Methodist Church, who will be attending again.

She described it as "a beautiful, wonderful gathering... for everybody".

"There are stalls, there's food, there's a main stage and musicians, entertainers and performers - it's just a really good day out," she said.

Ms Dixon said she gets "a lot of reactions" when people hear a church minister is taking part - but she loves the festivities.

"I've got a fabulous pair of rainbow fairy wings, so I'm like a variation on some kind of angel - that's how I like to see myself - with my dog collar.

"But it's always really positive, and a wonderful occasion to be part of."

She added: "I say, well the Christian message is love - and that's the most important thing.

"So for me it's really important to be out there and saying, 'God is love' - and here we are in the thick of things.

"Christians at Pride is a well-established organisation and it's just about being out there and welcoming people."

About 5,000 people are expected to attend this year's event.