THE Mayor of Basildon, Cllr Allan Davies was joined today (Friday, 6 September) by Deputy Mayor, Cllr Victoria Joseph for a special ceremony to raise the Pride flag.

The flag raising marks the start of Basildon Pride celebrations as the free, popular parade and festival returns tomorrow.

The parade will start in Basildon Town Centre from the old Toys 'R' Us leading to the festival at Gloucester Park. All residents are invited to join the parade starting at 11am.

With some of the UK's best tribute acts and drag artists, a food court, silent disco, funfair and chill zone, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the festival. 

Cllr Davies said: "It was my honour to raise the Pride flag above the Basildon Centre today to mark the beginning of the celebrations.

"While LGBT+ rights have come a long way in recent decades, events like Basildon Pride and today's flag raising remind us all that we can and must do more to ensure everyone who calls Basildon home feels accepted and welcomed by the community.

"It is so important that we each play our part to ensure Basildon is a place of equality and diversity, where we celebrate our differences, and everyone is welcome." 

"Basildon Pride has gone from strength to strength over the last few years, thanks in no small part to a community of dedicated and passionate volunteers and organisers. I hope residents will join us for the parade and festival on Saturday, it is set to be a fantastic day celebrating the LGBT+ community." 

Find out more about Basildon Pride celebrations here - Basildon Pride 2024 — Basildon Pride.