People have given a generally positive reaction to this year’s annual Pride event as the celebration returns to Lincoln, in a brand new location.
The free event was hosted at the Arboretum park off Monks Road on Saturday, a much bigger location than last year’s central Brayford celebration.
The response to the new location was generally positive, with visitors praising the wide and open space of the Arboretum.
Developer Jordan Bird said: “It’s a lot bigger so it is a lot better, I think. The Brayford was way too crowded. People who do day to day stuff it must have been a nightmare for, but though the Arboretum is out of the way, it isn’t too far away to get to.”
Rachel Willwright an ambassador for Lincoln girl guides said: “I’m finding the terrain of the ground a bit difficult, but overall I think it is a really good area to host the event here.”
However, the lack of a parade this year proved to be a disappointment for some visitors.
Rachel added: “The fact that there isn’t a parade this year is a problem.”
University of Lincoln student Eleanor said: “I wish there was a parade. That’s what’s really missing from Pride this year, I loved the atmosphere of last years. I hope they include it for next year.”
Games computing student Jack Bassindale said: “I much preferred last years location, it seems quite empty compared, and it’s disappointing that there isn’t a parade this year.”
Phillip Yeo, a spokesperson for Lincoln Pride told The Linc: ‘We were also very disappointed that we weren’t able to deliver a parade for this year’s Lincoln Pride.
‘The new venue had to be our main area of focus and as a parade can be disruptive for a city if not executed properly, our team always want to ensure that we’re being good citizens and neighbours for local residents. This means we need to give a substantial amount of notice (and comply with local regulations) for any road closures or delays which there was unfortunately not time to do this year.
‘While we love being able to deliver pride for the city, it’s worth noting the pride (and the parade) are very costly events to run and as a non-profit run solely by volunteers we are in absolute need of funding and sponsorship in order to keep the event going
‘We are already in talks with local authorities to arrange a parade for next year and we hope that local residents will come out to show their support.’
Headline acts this year included singer Tulisa, Bassline group Platinum and girl group Stooshe. As well as local acts such as Jack Rose and Eleci C.
There were over 40 stalls and food vendors who attended, including a bus bar and family friendly activities such as face-painting, games and a dedicated children’s area.
Pride has been held in Lincoln since 2012, and is aimed at celebrating diversity, inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ community.
The Linc also spoke to 18-year-old performer Ellouise Smith, who got the crowd going at 2:30pm with her trio of songs.
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