TODAY’S Pride celebrations have been scaled back and adapted to pay tribute to Her Majesty the Queen.
The Pride parade, which was due to be held this afternoon and run through the centre of town, has been cancelled.
However, the Pride village in the People’s Park will open at 2.30pm and will include extra events dedicated to the Queen.
A statement issued by the event’s organisers said: ‘On the advice of the Bailiff’s Chambers, who have co-ordinated with the Lord Chamberlain’s Office, public events are being asked to continue, but with an appropriate period of reflection at the outset.
‘The Pride village in the People’s Park will open at 2.30pm, and the planned events throughout the afternoon will now include a celebration of the life of Her Majesty, beginning with a one-minute silence at 3pm, followed by reflections from faith leaders and a choral tribute.
‘Our speakers, including Lord Cashman CBE, will reflect on the many positive changes seen during Her Majesty’s reign and the service she has given to the nation.’
The statement continued: ‘This decision has been taken only after very careful consideration and on the basis of advice provided to us by the Bailiff’s Chambers.
‘We hope that the event can be shared by all the community who wish to celebrate the life of Her Majesty, the progress of LGBTQ+ rights during her 70 years on the throne, and to welcome the reign of His Majesty King Charles III.’
