Belper celebrates return of Pride event

Organisers said Pride events in smaller towns were especially important

Thousands have attended a Pride event in Derbyshire to mark its return after the pandemic.

The first Pride march in Belper was held in 2019, but Covid forced it to move online for the past two years.

It is estimated 11,000 people took part, more than twice as many as in the first year.

Chair of the event, Sarah Barley-McMullen said it was important smaller towns had Pride events to show every community could be inclusive.

Community support turned the event from a picnic to a carnival

Ms Barley-McMullen said she decided to set up the event after facing homophobic abuse in the town.

"After that I felt everyone needed the opportunity to be an ally or a role model," she said.

"I decided to set up a Pride picnic in the Memorial Gardens, but as we were planning that we realised the community wouldn't let it be that small."

The parade route was extended this year to go through more of the town

The parade started in the Market Place and went through the town towards the Memorial Gardens.

Live music, along with food stalls and representatives from voluntary organisations were also part of the celebrations.

A Pride dog show is being held as part of the festivities

On Sunday there is also a Pride dog show, with categories such as Best Puppy, Best Veteran and Dog Most Like Its Owner.

Ms Barley-McMullen added: "It's really important that small towns have Pride events because it isn't just straight men and women who live in these communities.

"So this event is called Pride in Belper because we want everyone to be involved because everyone is part of the community."