Bishop Auckland hosted its inaugural pride event this weekend, with members of the LGBTQ+ community coming together to celebrate inclusion.

About 1,500 attendees over the course of the weekend donned colourful clothing, rainbow flags and glittering face paint which sparkled in the June sun as they gathered to celebrate equality and diversity in the town and wider County Durham.

The event started on Friday (June 21) and culminated on Saturday (June 22).

A host of musical performances, shows, stalls, talks and workshops dominated the schedule for the event hosted at Bishop Auckland College.

Although the event didn't draw the crowds of the likes of Durham Pride, it still attracted some big-name performers. Headlining the bill was County Durham-born drag queen Ginger Johnson, reigning winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, and comedian Stephen Bailey.

Speaking ahead of the event the Drag Race winner said: “Growing up in County Durham made me the proud Queer person I am today. Nothing makes me happier than seeing LGBTQ+ people come together to celebrate what makes our community so special.”

Director, Thomas Wales said, "We are really happy with how the event went, and it was great to show people what Pride is all about... unity, community, and happiness. The atmosphere was gorgeous, full of families with people of all ages wanting to be involved.  Working with Bishop Auckland College has been fantastic, they are a real asset to the town and are very keen to produce more events like this.

Now, we need to build on what we have, understand what worked, what didn't and start to put together a strategic plan for next year. We want to get the ball rolling and make this a huge success for the economy, for the community and for Bishop Auckland."

The event was organised by entertainment company Baccanalia alongside Bishop Auckland College, with students helping run the event.

College principal Shaun Hope said: “Pride is not just a festival but a catalyst for economic stimulation and enduring community growth, making Bishop Auckland as a beacon of progress and inclusivity.”

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

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(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)