PICS: Worksop Pride-goers paint the town Rainbow

More than one thousand people turned out to the historic event.

The groundbreaking celebration of diversity took place at the town’s Masonic Hall on Sunday, July 10.

Donned in fancy dress and face paints, LGBT people and supporters alike came together to show solidarity and and be entertained by an array of performance acts such as Adele tribute Hometown Glory and were also treated to a Pride after party at The Corner House pub.

Bassetlaw District Council demonstrated their support for the event by raising the LGBT flag over the town hall and adorning the high street with rainbow flags to mark the occasion.

It was an emotional day for the festival’s founder and organiser, Crystal Lucas, who launched the project alone and completely from scratch earlier this year.

Crystal, who quickly gained support from residents and businesses in the area who stepped up to help make her dream a reality, said: “In my eyes, the event went perfectly. ::

“For the last three months I have lived and breathed Worksop Pride from the moment I woke until the last thought before sleep.

“I naively thought it would be easy but it has taken a lot of focus, effort, drive and vision to pull it off.

Performer at Worksop Pride delights the cheering crowds.

“Having said that- to see everyone stood there, enjoying themselves and supporting the LGBT community, it was 100 per cent worth it.

“If I have made a difference to one person in the Worksop community, I would happily do it all again.”

Celebrity guest and former Emmerdale actress Alicya Eyo jumped at the chance to be involved with the event.

She said: “I think it’s important for LGBT people in smaller communities to have a chance to party and celebrate and support each other and get together.

Visitors painted rainbows on their faces in solidarity.

“Especially for younger people coming out- I think visibility is really important. And also for our straight friends to show their support.”

Councillor Simon Greaves, Leader at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “It was a great pleasure to attend Worksop’s first ever Gay Pride event along with many other Bassetlaw residents and members of the LGBT community to celebrate diversity and unity in our district.

“It was a fantastic day with a great atmosphere that had plenty going on to keep the whole family entertained.

“The town centre has been flooded with colour over the last week as local businesses have flown the Rainbow flag in support of the event, and I hope that this can become a regular fixture.

LGBT people and LGBT supporters alike turned out to the event.

“I would like to thank all the organisers for doing a fantastic job.”

During the festival, Crystal announced to a delighted crowd that Worksop Pride 2017 was already in the works. If you’re interested in getting involved, email [email protected].

You can find Worksop Pride online at www.WorksopPride.co.uk, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WorksopPride and Twitter @WorksopPride.