THURROCK'S first ever Pride event will take place in June with organisers hoping it will provide a powerful statement of visibility, acceptance and solidarity.

The Thurrock LGBTQ+ Community Network are delighted to have secured funding and support to host what promises to be a colourful community celebration this summer.

The event itself will be held on Saturday, 8 June with a walk leaving from Purfleet-on-Thames rail station at 9.30am along the Thames past Thurrock's graffiti wall before joining wider community members to walk up Grays High Street and finish at the Thameside Theatre, where Thurrock-born comedian and singer Jordan Gray will officially open the day.

The theatre, supporters of the network since its inception, will host a celebration from 1pm co-created by festival directors Arts Outburst, which will include live music, comedy, film and drag storytelling.

Community leaders, activists and allies will be able to take to the stage to deliver messages about acceptance and equality at the event which is being funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, Arts Council England, Start Thurrock and Riverside Community Grays Big Local, with additional support from rail company c2c.

Participants will be given vibrant, bespoke silk flags created by Purfleet-based, arts organisation and event partner, Kinetika, alongside members of the LGBTQ+ community, while another partners - T100 Festival – Thurrock's Walking, Talking and Making Festival- are set to lead the kick-off walk.

The Thurrock LGBTQ+ Community Network have been running monthly peer support drop-ins for the last 18 months and social events at the theatre which attract up to 80 attendees.

Jon Tilley, founder member of the network, said the team were delighted to be launching Pride, saying: "This event represents not just a celebration of diversity but a powerful statement of visibility, acceptance, and solidarity within our community.

"It's a beacon of hope, affirming that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves to be embraced and celebrated for who they are.

"This Pride isn't just an event - it's a testament to our ongoing journey toward equality, inclusion, and love.

"From the start of the group, our mantra has been - no matter what your identify is or who you love, everyone is welcome to join in. 

"We are so privileged to have received so much support.

"This event would not be possible without support from funders, partners and the community.

"It's been so humbling to know that people care."

For more information about the network and updates on the Pride event, visit https://www.facebook.com/thurrocklgbtnetwork/