SOUTHAMPTON firms are getting behind one of the city’s newest - and most colourful festivals - as they clamour to sponsor this year’s Pride.

As previously reported more than double the numbers expected turned up in rainbow flags to march through the city and dance the night away in defence and celebration of gay, lesbian, transsexual and bisexual rights.

Now seven city organisations have confirmed their support of the event, in what organisers are hoping will be an even bigger and better day-long festival.

And with a line-up featuring no other than 80s pop legends Sinitta and Sonia there are high hopes for the second annual event.

The official sponsors who are now backing the event are Solent University, Aviva, Turtle Bay, Nandos, Radio Taxis, and The Stage Door.

And with support from luxury cruise line company Cunard, who are based at Westquay Road, Southampton, and are the event’s main sponsor, momentum for Southampton Pride is growing.

Organiser Julianne Watling-McCarthy said: “It’s wonderful that so many local businesses and organisations are supporting Pride as we wouldn’t be able to put it on without them.

“Plans are progressing well and we’re excited to have confirmed our headline acts and have many amazing local performers on the day too. The fun starts at 11am and continues until 11pm.

“Our parade will take place at 2pm from the Guildhall Square and continue down the high street to the Bargate monument and back again.

But the organising committee - including Julianne Watling-Mccarthy, Lyndsey Whettingsteel, James Sayers, Mikey Ghee, and Daniel Langrish-Beard - say they are still on the look out for volunteers who can help in the run-up and on the day itself.

Chief executive of Global Health at Aviva, Mark Noble, said: “We are delighted to work with Southampton Pride, and to support them in their second year.

“It’s a great year for Aviva as our LGBT+ network, Aviva Pride, celebrates its tenth anniversary, and the tenth year of being the only insurer in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index Top 100.

“Aviva is committed to inclusive diversity, and we’re proud to have a workplace where people can do the best work of their life, and never have to hide who they are.”

Anyone who can help should email julianne@southamptonpride.org

The event takes place on August 26