SOUTHAMPTON Pride is set to be hosted completely outdoors for the first time in a bid to keep festival-goers safe.

Thousands of gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans festival-goers and their friends will flock to Guildhall Square this month for the fifth Southampton Pride event, the south's fastest-growing festival of its kind.

Organisers have announced that Southampton Pride, due to take place on August 28 at 11am, will be hosted outdoors and not within the Guildhall.

The indoor market hall will become an outdoor market row and will be held on West Marlands Road occupying what was previously a closed space.

In a post on Facebook, they said: "For the first time ever, Southampton Pride 2021 will be a 100 per cent outdoor event.

"Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic we have made the decision to not use the Guildhall this year and bring our entire event outdoors.

"To accommodate this change, our Main Stage and Big Screen will be moving in front of the Guildhall! Giving us a dedicated performance space directly in front of the stunning Guildhall building with a view over the entire square.

"Our Quiet Room, for those that require it, is being accommodated by our friends at Mayflower Studios opposite our main gate, more information on that can be found in our Pride Guide on the day."

An after-party event is due to be hosted at The Edge which will run for a full 12 hours.

The nightclub has extended the club to add an extra bar and dance floor.