Pride in Surrey joy as Council gives nod to September 9 event in Reigate

Speaking at the launch event held at the Town Hall on Thursday (8 June), Cll Richard Biggs, Council Leader said:

“We were excited when Pride in Surrey approached us to bring their event to the borough – the first time the event has been hosted in the East of the county. The event has been subject to the usual licensing and safety expectations as all major events are, and I am pleased to confirm that the license application process is complete and will - subject to some agreed additional conditions – be issued in due course.

“Our sponsorship of this launch event cements the Council’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. It is also our way of offering support and opportunities to all communities across our borough, and, through this partnership, we want to celebrate and connect the LGBTQ+ community.”

Set up in 2018, Pride in Surrey works to celebrate, educate, and connect the LGBTQ+ community in various ways. One way is through colourful parades and events that are free for families and individuals to take part in. The event in Priory Park will be Pride in Surrey’s fourth since the organisation was founded in 2018. Previous events have been held in Woking, Godalming, and Camberley.  

A magnificent location

Charlie Watts, Chief Executive, Pride in Surrey said: “We pride ourselves on moving our summer event around the county each year, to ensure that everyone in Surrey will have an opportunity to attend our event in a town close to them. We’ve had hundreds of messages from our supporters, asking for your towns to be considered, and this year, we are pleased to be coming to Priory Park. It is a beautiful venue in a magnificent location, and we can’t wait to welcome you all on September 9.”

As part of their campaign to educate and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, Pride in Surrey has also set up a Pride Hub in Redhill.   The hub – open only at the weekends from 10am - offers a one-stop shop for all things Pride. It is an addition to the one set up in Dorking in December 2021.

“The Redhill Hub will be the place to get involved in this year’s Pride. Visitors will be able to sign up to take part in the parade and volunteer, but also shop Pride merchandise and LGBTQ+ gifts. It is thanks to the kind and welcoming team at The Belfry Shopping Centre that we are able to bring this important space to the town," said Watts.

Progress flag

Meanwhile, to celebrate pride month and as a mark of the Council’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusivity, the progress pride flag has been hoisted at the Town Hall where it will fly for the remainder of June.

To support or sponsor the event in September, or to book your tickets, visit their website.