Pride parade at 'serious risk' of being cancelled
A pride parade is at 'serious risk' of being cancelled, organisers have claimed.
Posting on their Facebook page on Friday, organisers of Worthing Pride said that it had seen a decline in businesses applying to take part and no sponsors so far.
They said: "Last year we had over 35 local businesses and 500 people involved in the parade.
"This year we have had six businesses apply apply to date.
"We also have no parade sponsor this year. Its a real tough time for all Pride [events]."
The event is being held on July 4 and 5 in Steyne Gardens.
Headliners for the festival include Jo O'Meara from S Club and Natasha Hamilton from Atomic Kitten fame.
Drag performers include Elektra Fence from RuPaul's Drag Race UK.
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The organisers called for businesses to sponsor the parade and for people to sign up to take part.
They said: "The parade costs over £6,000 a year for us to run, insurance costs, road closures, health and safety fees, fees to the council and this isn't something we can continue to fund without support.
"We receive no support from the council or charities to fund the event. The parade cannot be free due to these costs to keep everyone safe.
"We have reduced the cost of parade entry to £10 per person which includes a free ticket into the main park on Saturday.
"We are looking for a sponsor to support us like previous years: Nandos, Pasante Healthcare, Goring Hall, HSBC have all taken over the parade sponsorship but this year we have had no luck!
"Without to interests from participants to take part and a sponsor we will regrettably have to cancel this year's parade aspect of Pride."
The first Worthing Pride event took place in 2018. In 2021, the event was postponed until September due to the Covid 19 pandemic.
Businesses or individuals who can support the parade financially have been encouraged to email sales@worthingpride.com
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