ORGANISERS of the first Southampton Pride event in twenty years have announced their headline act.

Marcus Collins, X Factor runner-up 2011 and singer of ‘Mercy’ will wow the crowds at the August bank holiday event.

The 28 year old, who also starred in Hairspray at the Mayflower last year will be supported by up-and-coming boy band The Half Eight from Nottingham.

Organiser Vie Portland said: “We’ve just this morning had Marcus confirmed and I know as a gay man he’s very keen to promote the event.”

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, the one day Pride will take place on August 28, with a stage on West Marlands Road, a parade around the Bargate and a whole day of family friendly activities with after-parties at the Edge nightclub and the London Hotel.