West Ham United's LGBT+ supporters' group Pride of Irons will celebrate Essex Pride 2022 in Chelmsford on Saturday.
Members of Pride of Irons and the Hammers' Women's Supporters Board, mascots Hammerhead and Bubbles the Bear and Club representatives will be in attendance at the annual event, which will kick-off with a Pride March through the Essex city, followed by a Pride Festival in Central Park.
Essex Pride is an annual celebration of LGBT+ life in Essex and beyond. Establishing itself since it began in 2003 as a cornerstone event showcasing Essex’s successful approach to diversity and inclusion.
Pride is an event for the whole community and much more than just a huge party. Pride inspires everyone to embrace equality and demonstrates that people from all walks of life can join together and celebrate diversity.
“With this year marking the 50th anniversary of the first UK pride march, it’s feels so important to recognise the pivotal part that pride marches have played in driving change in society and law," said the Chair of Essex Pride, Garry Ormes.
“As part of Essex Pride 2022, our march recognises all those before us, who have taken to the streets to make a stand against inequality.
“Our aim is to highlight an incredibly positive message about acceptance, and celebrating our differences.”
The Essex Pride March departs Backnang Square at 11.40am and travels down Springfield Road and along the River Can to Central Park, where the Pride Fesitval kicks-off at 12.30pm.
Participation in the March is free, but organisers are urging people to sign up here to give them an idea of overall numbers.
Tickets for the Festival can be purchased in advance here, with a 25% discount. Supporters should bear in mind that children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
Among the acts performing will be Heather Small, the voice of M People, and Sonique.