A town’s first Pride event is gearing up to go ahead this summer.

Preparations in Ashford are underway for the day celebrating diversity and inclusion which will include a parade, various activities and a party into the night.

On the day, attendees can enjoy live music, performances, community stalls, and educational resources on LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance.

The day, on June 22, will end with a parade through the town centre before an after party at Coachworks near the railway station in Dover Place.

Sam Griffin, one of the Pride organisers, is excited for the town to host its first event.

She said: “We are thrilled to bring this long-awaited celebration of love and acceptance to Ashford.

“Our goal is to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone to come together, show their support and have a fantastic time.”

Businesses in the area can show their support by sponsoring the event.

The events in Ashford follow several other places in Kent that host their own celebrations.

Last year in Canterbury, thousands took to the streets on one of the hottest days of the year to celebrate Pride with a technicolour parade and celebrated acts, drawing tens of thousands to the city for the two-day celebrations.

Hundreds of marchers took to Folkestone town centre, ending with live music at The Leas Bandstand.

This was the first parade in the seaside town since before the pandemic in 2019.

Speaking on Ashford’s first Pride event, Cllr Heather Hayward (Ind) said: “I’m thrilled to be a part of the team bringing Pride to Ashford.

“This event will celebrate our hugely diverse LGBTQIA+ community and also attract visitors (and footfall) to our town centre.

“We want Ashford to be a safe, welcoming space for all regardless of sexual orientation and this is a step towards promoting that.”