A new venue has been announced for Sefton’s first ever Pride event due to the unsettled weather forecast.
It was due to be held outdoors at Southport’s Victoria Park this Sunday (16th July 2023) but will now be held indoors at Southport Market between midday and 7pm.
It will be preceded by the first ever Pride March, with everyone welcome to attend.
People are invited to gather in the Town Hall Gardens on Lord Street in Southport ahead of the parade setting off through Southport town centre at 11.45am.
The Pride celebration has been organised by Sefton Pride CIC, a community interest company founded earlier this year.
Jen Corcoran
Event organiser Jen Corcoran said:
“Due to some weather that is stunning for ducks and snails, but not so good for an outdoor event, we have taken the decision to relocate.
“We are pleased to announce that we will now be holding our event in Southport Market – a brilliant events space.
“We still have Drag Queen Story Hour UK, Kelly Bond, Hayley Murray, comedian Jacqueline Fontaine, John Coates, Kenny Thompson, Viki Duffy, Boujee Bentlee, Coneheads, The Violets, Starkidz, Broken Spine Arts, Sapphic Seaside Poet, Biblio Obscura, Rebecca Kenny and our generally boss vibes.
“The march will still happen, but I’ll fathom a new route! .
“Hope to see you all there!”
Pride marches are a traditional statement and reflect the history of the movement.
Anyone wishing to march to Southport Market is invited to meet at the Princess Diana Gardens (also known as the Town Hall Gardens) from 11am.
There will be a march from 11.45am led by special guests and with volunteer marshalls keeping everyone on track.
Once you are at Southport Market you can expect entertainment, a bar and sweet treats.
There will be performances from singers, DJs, bands and drag acts.
Starkidz will be around keeping anyone young at heart entertained.
Aida H. Dee will present Drag Queen Story Hour.
Representatives from community groups and Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service will be around to show their support for the community – keep following Sefton Pride on social media for more details and for the headline announcement.
Event organiser Jen Corcoran said: “Sefton Pride CIC is very grateful for the support received to keep this event free to attend – generous donations have been made from Fletchers Group and Sefton councillors, with more donations expected this week.
“Local businesses also supporting the event to ensure it is a success include Tesco, Morrisons, North West Marquee Hire, Moonlight Events and The Vincent Hotel.”
Natasha SandlandMarshside Primary School Headteacher Natasha Sandland said:
“I was keen to get involved in the project as I feel Sefton has such a diverse population that we don’t celebrate enough.
“I think my role as a primary headteacher is key to generating understanding and giving children a forum to ask questions and be curious.
“Promoting a safe and inclusive Sefton is rooted in education. Aside from this, Pride in Sefton, what great fun to be involved!”
Natasha has been instrumental in bringing on board the artist for the 2023 merchandise as well as assisting with distributing a survey around schools in Sefton to ensure this event is driven by what the community wants.
Alan Adams
Southport Flower Show General Manager Alan Adams, another supporter of the event, said:
“I am honoured to be asked to get involved in Sefton Pride. The Liverpool City Region Pride network has done great things for the LGBTQ+ community across Merseyside but we have a lot more to do in areas outside of the city centre.
“As an ally, I want to help celebrate diversity in Sefton and increase the visibility of our LGBTQ+ community.
“Sefton Pride will help platform local LGBTQ+ voices, playing its part in making our borough a safe and welcoming space.”
If you want any more information or wish to make a donation, please contact founder director Jen Corcoran – jen.sefton.pride@gmail.com.
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