NEWCASTLE Pride sponsored by NE1 is on course to smash all previous records after tens of thousands of people flocked to a free event of music and entertainment over the weekend (July 15-17).
The warm weather and a host of top acts attracted thousands of people to the biggest weekend of the UK’s leading LGBT celebration, bringing the total number of visitors to this year’s festival to more than 73,000.
Chart-topping boy band 5ive and M People songstress Heather Small were headliners at the ninth annual event, and were joined by a string of other top acts like Sonia, Jake Quickenden and Nathan Moore plus a number of emerging North East acts.
The weekend kicked off on Friday evening with the LGBT 5K run on the Town Moor followed by a screening of Sing along a Mamma Mia.
On Saturday afternoon a record-breaking 12,500 people brought the city to a standstill as they took part in the annual parade up to the Moor, and their arrival launched the official start of the music and entertainment at the site.
As well as a feast of live music over the two days, visitors were able to enjoy a variety of stalls and entertainment areas including a family zone, dance tent, food and drink stalls and a fun fair.
Northern Pride Chairman Mark Nichols said: “This has been without doubt our biggest Newcastle Pride to date. With more than 73,000 visitors to the festival we have beaten all of our previous records and surpassed all expectations.
“It was fantastic to see so many people of all ages coming together to celebrate the LGBT community and enjoying a host of amazing music, great food and top entertainment.”
Newcastle Pride sponsored by NE1 is now officially recognised as one of the largest free LGBT events in the UK, with visitor numbers growing year on year.
Last year it boosted the North East economy by more than £9m and although figures are still currently being calculated for this year’s event, organisers are confident that it will be even higher.
Sean Bullick, Chief Executive at NE1 added: “This is the third year that NE1 has supported Newcastle Pride.
“It always has the most amazing atmosphere and it’s just getting bigger and better each year; 73,000 people from all over the world having a fantastic time as well as giving the local economy a huge boost. We look forward to 100,000 next year!”