A charity supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community has applied for an entertainment licence so it can stage a Pride event.

Volunteer-run Medway Pride CIC – which also operate Medway Pride Radio – has made the application for land on Doust Way, Rochester.

The group is planning a family-friendly celebration on Saturday, August 21, which will include stalls showcasing the work of the voluntary sector, as well as speeches and entertainment from noon.

The group has planned appearances from the Medway Pride Radio Roadshow, ABBA Chique, Chai Latte, Gary Lucas, Elberace (Gay Elvis), drag queen River Medway, Amrick Channa, Dr Beverley Ballcrusher, Kelly Wilde and Sami Brooks, with the event closing at 8pm.

Representatives from Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue and Kent and Medway Community Health Care NHS Trust are also expected to attend to speak to people about the services they provide.

Last year, although the group's in-person Pride event was called off because of the pandemic, they put on a eight-day long virtual event in collaboration with Gravesham Pride CIC.

The group had been planning to stage a parade through Chatham and Rochester followed by a finale in the castle gardens; it would have been the first event of its kind in the Medway Towns.

Some of the funds raised for the event have been rolled over to this year's celebration.

An eight-day programme of events starting on Saturday, August 14 will begin with Gravesham Pride, with events planned in Gravesham and the Towns.

Information including arrangements for viewing the details of the application for staging entertainment, live and recorded music, as well as dance, is available from Medway Council.

Representations from interested parties must be made by Wednesday, July 7.

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