THE very first Bury Pride will shine brightly on Saturday with a colourful celebration of equality and diversity.

The free event will feature a walking rainbow parade through the streets of Bury town centre and culminate in a sold-out extravaganza at the Elizabethan Suite.

The parade starts at Bury Town Hall at 10.30am, led by the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Mike Connolly and his consort Ian Hargreaves.

It will feature local organisations, dancers and supporters as well as a sparkling fire engine at the parade finish, and people are invited to show their support at various locations on the route.

The Elizabethan Suite’s entertainment is headlined by Mr Wilson’s 2nd Liners and boasts Manchester’s famous Lesbian & Gay Chorus, Scottish ceilidh dancing troupe the Gay Gordons, and the Sensational Miss Sal Ford.

Sponsored by Russell & Russell Solicitors, Best of Bury, LNK Motors and Bury Business Lodge, the main hall will host 30 exhibitors, a Prosecco bar, still life drawing with Bury Art Gallery, and an acoustic room showcasing talented local singer songwriters.

Also taking part in Saturday’s event will be Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council.

Cllr Shori said: “The first walking rainbow parade in Bury took place five years ago, arranged by the POG ‘Proud of Gayness’ youth group.

"The event has gone from strength to strength since then and hopefully Bury Pride will become an annual celebration of equality and diversity.

“While the need to raise awareness of LGBT issues is important, Saturday’s event is also a great excuse to have fun, and the support from the local community and beyond has been tremendous.

“A big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has helped with this event, especially the SuperJosh Charity and Bury Lions.”

For more information or details of how to get involved, email David Catterall at d.catterall@bury.gov.uk