Crowds flock to New Forest Pride at Lymington’s Bath Road recreation ground

CROWDS dressed in a riot of pink and rainbow colours flocked to Pride New Forest where they enjoyed an array of performances from musicians and drag artists.

Sunny skies meant the turnout for the event was around 1,500 with organisers saying it was a “resounding success” with “the community coming together to celebrate diversity and inclusion, making this year’s Pride a memorable event for all who attended”.

There were 40 local traders, support groups and charities in attendance on the day offering everything from handmade crafts and vegan produce to a chat and a cup of tea.

A reptile handling and education tent proved very popular with people of all ages wanting to get up close to a variety of slithery creatures.

Spudworks in Sway provided artwork for fencing supplied by New Forest District Council around the event, held at Lymington’s Bath Road recreation ground.

Musical performances by The 45s, Rock of the Pops, Gay Elvis and Maybe Gaga were major highlights, and the day was ”flawlessly” hosted by Dixie Normous and Misty Lee.

Hampshire police officers were in attendance to make sure the event went without trouble, giving what organisers described as a “sense of safety and inclusion”.

The organisers thanked sponsors Firefly Festivals, Tesco, Unison, New Forest West Labour Party, National Education Union, Levelling Up, and The Gig Directory, saying their “generous support made this event possible”.

They also thanked the security team and volunteers who helped set up the event and clear up afterwards.

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