New Pride event coming to Cannock Chase
Planning is underway to bring a brand new festival to the Cannock Chase area, aimed at celebrating diversity and embracing the LGBT+ community.
An organising committee, headed by Hednesford Town Councillor Kathryn Downs, has announced the first Chase Pride will take place in Hednesford Park next year, on June 6.
The colourful day-festival will include a carnival-style town centre parade as well as music, comedy and varied entertainment throughout the day, its purpose being to support the local LGBT community, break down barriers and raise awareness of LGBT issues.
Councillor Downs said: “As a nation we have made great progress on LGBT+ rights in recent years, but with one in five LGBT+ people being subjected to hate crime and discrimination in the last 12 months, there is still work to do.
“Our Pride event will be a fun celebration of LGBT+ culture, while providing opportunities for the general public to learn about the issues facing our community and signposting to outreach services for those in need.
“We have tremendous support for this locally and we’re thrilled to have just been granted charitable status. Our organising committee includes fellow councillors from Hednesford Town and Cannock Chase District Council as well as residents and professionals who care about bringing everyone in our community closer.”
It is hoped the event will become an annual fixture that can tour the Cannock Chase district, being hosted in various locations across Rugeley, Cannock, Heath Hayes and Norton Canes in the years to come.
Chase Pride branding has combined the Pride rainbow with the iconic Cannock Chase stag, giving it a unique identity for the region. T-shirts, hats and other merchandise will be available in the run-up to the event, with all proceeds helping fund activities on the day.
“We’re planning a family friendly event offering a variety of activities for all ages, from market and community stalls, trampolines and inflatables to graffiti and craft workshops and more,” Councillor Downs added.
“It’s already gaining momentum and we’re getting offered support from local businesses like The Hen House Sports and Music Bar, who has offered their venue for an after party once the festival in the park has ended.
“There will be lots of elements to the day and we’re looking forward to connecting with more businesses and potential sponsors over the coming months as we continue building the event.”
To find out more about Chase Pride, or how you can get involved, visit the website at www.chasepride.org.uk or find them on Facebook.
