Hundreds celebrate town's first Pride event

Organisers of a town's first Pride event said it was "here to stay" after nearly 200 people joined the celebrations.

Marlborough Pride took place in the Wiltshire market town on 24 June and included a march through the High Street and songs from local singing groups.

"It was both heart-warming and humbling to see so many people turn out for the event," said organiser Richard Lowe. "Judging by all the cheers and hoots from cars and lorries as we marched up and down the High Street, I'd say Marlborough Pride is here to stay."

The event was attended by Marlborough's Mayor and Lieutenant General Sir Andrew Gregory who serves as the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire.

He is also CEO of SSAFA - the Armed Forces charity - and patron of Fighting with Pride (FWP), a charity created to support LGBTQ+ veterans who were impacted by the historic UK Armed Forces "gay ban".

Addressing a crowd gathered in St Peter's Church, Sir Gregory paid tribute to those gay people who were discharged with disgrace from the armed forces.

"Until 2000, being gay in the armed forces was illegal and meant a dishonourable discharge," he said.

"Some were even put in jail.

"Thankfully the military has moved on in the last 25 years but there are still some very scarred veterans who were discharged who feel shamed and still can't celebrate their service to this day."

Sir Gregory said a charity called Fighting with Pride was set up to support them six years ago.

He said he was honoured to be at the Pride event, making sure "the LGBTQ+ community's voice is heard" in society.

"It is important that we don't regress," he said. "There is always a danger of that."

The free Pride event began at St Peter's Church, setting off through the High Street as people carried banners and messages of support.

Celebrations continued into the evening at the church with music and performances from local choirs.

"This event is about visibility, community and belonging," said organiser Rachel Lynes.

"We want LGBT+ people in Marlborough to know that they are valued, supported and celebrated.

"We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from local organisations, community groups and civic leaders."

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