Kent’s only Pride event draws 5,000 revellers

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a pink background.

The sun, absent for much of the summer of 2007, chose to make an appearance at Kent’s only Pride event last weekend.

The first ever Thanet Pride drew an estimated 5,000 people to the beach at Margate.

The event was backed by Thanet District Council, local businesses and national sponsors, among them Viagra manufacturer Pfizer.

Boy bands, girl groups and drag acts performed and Margate’s gay and gay-friendly venues held after-parties until the early hours of the morning.

“Thanet Pride proved to be a tremendous success,” said chairman Kevin Grice.

“The sun was shining all the day and we had a real festival atmosphere.

“Holding the event so close to the beach also gave it a great holiday feel and brought a huge splash of colour and campness to Margate.

Grice is already looking to the future: “We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year for what promises to be an even bigger and better event, so keep checking our website.