Pictures: Bideford Pride hailed a huge success – and next year is already in the diary

The community turned out in force to support Bideford Pride on Sunday (August 18) with an estimated 600 people attending the event held at Victoria Park.

There was a procession around the park of some 200 people, plus speeches from many connected with the local LGBTQ+ community, as well as entertainment, refreshments and children’s activities at the Burton Gallery.

Pride has been held sporadically in the town before, but there was determination this year to organise a static event at the park that would become an annual fixture in the town calendar and continue to grow.

It was organised in association with local transgender youth charity Transilience, with proceeds from the day going towards the charity as well as hosting Pride again next year.

Above: Bideford Mayor Rachel Clarke opened the Bideford Pride event at Victoria Park. Credit: Graham Hobbs

Organiser Natalie Fairbrother: “I’m blown away by the support of the Bideford community for Pride this year. To see so much love from members of the LGBTQ+ community, their friends and families and allies in a safe space made all of the work of our volunteer committee worth it.

“What Beki Sharples of Transilience has done for Bideford is a legacy I’m so proud to play a small part of. I’m so grateful and proud of everybody that came out on the day to celebrate with us and share their stories with us too.

“We’ve had the most tremendous feedback and the Pride committee would like to thank everyone for their continued support. In answer to the biggest question of the day, yes - we’ll see you all again next year. Bideford Pride is here to stay!”

*** All pictures by Graham Hobbs ***

Beki Sharples said the atmosphere and the turnout clearly illustrate the need for Pride in the community.

She added: “Celebration was a big part of the day, but alongside that was support, guidance, signposting, and conversations towards what is needed to support trans youth and their families to navigate their way through the challenges of being a trans person in today's society.

“I want parents of trans youth to know they aren’t alone and there is support and someone to lean on here at Transilience, to strengthen them and aid their resilience to be the most supportive parent they can be.”

Her son Oscar Sharples added: “It was so lovely to see more of a trans community presence at Bideford pride this year - we had so many emotional and heart-warming conversations.

“At Transilience we're determined to ensure that the trans community doesn't get left behind in community events like this, and that we rally as much support for our local trans youth as we can.”

**** See more pictures in our gallery above **** All pictures courtesy of Graham Hobbs ****