Kent's largest Pride festival has been cut to one day this year after being struck by financial issues.

Organisers of Pride Canterbury say they have made a "very difficult decision" to reduce the length of the event, which was first held in 2005.

The festival will take place in Dane John Gardens on Saturday, June 8, but was initially due to continue the following day to make it a weekend-long show.

In a statement, the organisers said: "Due to the current financial climate, we have made the very difficult decision to consolidate our weekend of celebration into a single free to attend day on June 8.

"This change for 2024 will allow us to continue providing the best possible experience and ensures Pride Canterbury will continue to be free this year.

"While we regret not being able to celebrate over two days, this adjustment ensures the quality and experience of Pride Canterbury remains at the high standard you would expect."

The gala is due to begin with its popular parade in Canterbury High Street from 11am.

It will also feature entertainment, a marketplace and food and drink.

Tens of thousands are expected to descend on Dane John Gardens to see a number of famous names and artists during the day.

Those headlining the event include TV personality Katie Price.

The line-up also includes TikTok star Bailey J Mills, 90’s dance legend Urban Cookie Collective, pop idol icon Michelle Mcmanus and LGBTQ+ and YouTuber Charity Shop Sue performing a DJ set.

Oompa Loompa actress Kirsty Patterson, who shot to fame earlier this year after speaking out about Glasgow’s Willy-Wonka experience, will also make an appearance.

Meanwhile, Ru-Paul’s Drag Race legend Baga Chipz is returning to the stage for the fifth time while Wicked actress Kerry Ellis, who played Elphaba, has been billed.

Noughties pop duo Booty Luv will also take to the stage while kmfm’s Rob Wills will broadcast live from the main stage.

Held in towns and cities worldwide, Pride festivals have become synonymous with love and friendship as they showcase how far LGBTQ+ rights have come, but also how more still needs to be done.

Speaking to kmfm earlier this year, Canterbury Pride 2024 organiser Jonathan Fitter-Harding said: “For us, one of the really important things for Pride is we've got a really good community feel.

“We also want to be appropriate for families to come.

“I've got two children myself who are five and seven and they love Pride – they come along, they enjoy some of the fairground rides that we have.”