Thousands enjoy music and dancing as Eastleigh Pride returns

The event, which was held at Leigh Road Recreation Ground on Saturday, comes after last year’s event was cancelled due to the pandemic.

Eastleigh Pride was founded to help bring equality and diversity to the town, and the organisation champions the right of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) rights.

Despite the extended absence though, thousands attended, surpassing all expectations of organisers who said they were “very happy with the outcome”.

• Eastleigh Pride set to return 'bigger and better' this year

Just under 60 stalls were set up, while musicians and entertainment acts performed.

Founder Dannon Robinson said: “It was a lot better than I believed it was going to be. We anticipated a minimum of 1,500 to 2,500 people throughout the day and we had approximately 3,000.

“I think that because we made it so fresh, so original in the performers and the hosts, we exceeded our original footfall projection.”

Eastleigh MP Paul Holmes, who attended the event, said: “The Eastleigh Pride event was a great success and it was a privilege to attend the event alongside so many other wonderful organisations.

“There was a terrific mix of businesses and charities and the food stalls were also a particular highlight. I’m very much looking forward to next year already.”

Eastleigh Councillor, Tina Campbell also took to social media after the event and said: “What I loved most about the community-led Eastleigh Pride other than all the colour was the number of children who were there.

“A whole generation growing up in an inclusive culture where it’s OK to be yourself.

“The sun shone, people danced & love was in the air.”