One Kent town is holding its first ever Pride event.

A parade of people celebrating the LGBTQ+ community will head from one end of Maidstone to the other today (Saturday).

There have been many similar parades around the county, but it will be the first time it has come to Maidstone.

Here's everything you need to know...

When and where is it happening?

A parade will begin at midday from County Hall before making its way along Week Street to Jubilee Square and eventually ending with a celebration party at Lockmeadow leisure centre from 2pm.

There will be a stage at the final venue where a variety of performances will take place during the afternoon. There will also be food stalls and stands.

Everyone is invited to line the streets to wave flags and banners while cheering on the parade but only those who have pre-registered are able to join the procession.

It will feature local organisations and groups, plus some extra special characters to keep an eye out for.

Who is performing at Maidstone Pride?

Drag acts The Madame, from local restaurant and bar MuMu, will host the event and be joined by fellow drag performer Julie Glitter.

A spokesman for the pride event added: “We are proudly presenting more performances including Sistine – a super talented local band. Sistine are a Soul, Jazz and Fusion band from here in Kent. We can’t wait to hear what they play for us on the day.

“We also have the most amazing and talented drag artist, local to Maidstone, The Madame.

“We are extremely delighted to announce that we have the lovely Lucie Lastic, local to Maidstone, performing for us at the event. You won’t want to miss this.

“Last but certainly not least we have Haus of Heels joining us to show off their high energy moves. We can’t wait to see the sass.”

Do you have to pay, and who can attend?

Anyone is free to attend, you don't need a ticket to watch the parade or enjoy the entertainment.

How to get there

The parade will be kicking off from County Hall – also known as Sessions House – near the prison.

It is directly opposite Maidstone East for anyone who is getting a train or a short walk up Week Street in the town centre to the location.

There is some parking at the station nearby, but not much.

The end destination at Lockmedow is within walking distance but there is also parking for anyone who wants to make the short drive.

Tess Salawa-Adams was one of a few organisers who got the event up and running.

They said: "It's been so lovely to see just the influx of requests to get involved and people saying we'll do anything to help out.

“A lot of it has been community based - charities step up and step in to get involved. They've been a big part of it.

“We've had local businesses who have supported us by putting our posters out and telling customers about it. It's been a really good response so far."