Having not been held since its inaugural event in 2019 because of the coronavirus pandemic, crowds are once again expected to turn out in numbers to celebrate St Helens Pride – the first Pride event to take place in the Liverpool City Region this summer.

In line with this year’s theme of ‘come together’ to represent the return of in-person events, much needed connection, and uniting as one – the day will see live stage performances in Church Square and entertainment at the Citadel, courtesy of MD Creatives – as well as a Pride parade walk. While St Helens Library Service will also be getting in on the action with activities such as a family-friendly drag star show in St Helens Library, based in the World of Glass Museum.

Commenting on how important it is to have a Pride event in St Helens Borough, Emma Cuerden, Health Improvement Specialist and co-ordinator for Over the Rainbow, said: “I’m excited to be part of St Helens Pride.  As an LGBT+ ally and co-ordinator for the LGBT+ group ‘Over the Rainbow’, which offers support for both young people and parents, I know the importance of coming together to celebrate and embrace the towns diversity. We want to show future generations and those people who may feel scared to come out, that St Helens is “no place for hate”. This is especially significant as this year marks 50 years since the UK’s first Pride.”

Councillor Anthony Burns, St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Culture and Heritage, said: “As a council which recognises the importance of celebrating diversity, so we are delighted to see the return of St Helens Pride, which will receive our full support.

“I remember how successful the first event was back in 2019 when not even the bad weather could dampen spirits – so it’s a great shame what’s happened in between with Covid, but excellent news that we’re able to hold Pride again this year.

“If the turnout is anything like three years ago, it’s sure to be a great occasion and I’d encourage residents and local businesses to get fully behind this event, which spreads nothing but love.”

Councillor Jeanie Bell, Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities, added: “We know how much of a great place our borough is and we want everyone to know what an accepting place St Helens is.

“Not only is Pride a cause for celebration but it is also a time to remember the fight for equality that LGBTQ+ people have gone through, past and present.

“We stand united in the spirit of St Helens Together to say that love is love as we prepare to welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community, locally and further afield, into St Helens to celebrate who they are in a safe and fun environment.”

Miguel Doforo, creative director of MD Creatives, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that pride is returning to St Helens again this year, following on from the success of 2019 its exciting to see live events making a return. St Helens has such a huge diverse culture and an eclectic mix of people and an event like pride is an excellent event to platform this and come together.”

St Helens Pride will take place in Church Square, St Helens Town Centre, on Saturday 2 July between 12:00pm-4:00pm.

Acts interested in performing at St Helens Pride are asked to email miguel@mdcreatives.co.uk