Sophie Ellis-Bextor to headline Poole's first Pride

Sophie Ellis-Bextor's 2001 hit, Murder on the Dancefloor, is back in the charts

Murder on the Dancefloor singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor will headline the first Pride event held in Poole, Dorset.

Pride will take place at Lighthouse arts centre on 8 June and will be preceded by a week-long film festival.

A month-long exhibition is also planned to honour gay activist John Chesterman, who was involved in the formation of the Gay Liberation Front in 1970.

As well as the concert and DJs, there will be a family-friendly daytime programme with performances and talks.

Lighthouse head of programming Tim Colegate said: "We're thrilled that Sophie will headline Poole's first ever Pride this summer - she's the perfect artist to top the bill on a day that is all about inclusivity.

"Poole Pride will be a safe space for everyone where people can be themselves, come as they are and, crucially, enjoy some first-class entertainment.

"We're thankful for the support of Bourne Free, Bournemouth's annual Pride festival, to pull this off."

Poole Pride will include performances and activities throughout Lighthouse, including the outdoor theatre.

Tickets go on general sale on Thursday.

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