Walsall Pride held virtually this year

Walsall Pride – which takes place today – was originally going to take place as an outdoor event but had to be cancelled.

But now the event, which started in 2012, will be held online – with stories for families to enjoy offered across social media.

The event will be streamed on YouTube, Facebook, Twitch and Twitter simultaneously – with the main feature starting at 1pm.

It will see the likes of Nikki Belle, Jo O’Meara from S-Club 7 and Rozzala amongst others perform, followed by DJ sets.

Matt Higgins, one of the organising trustees of the event, said: "People look forward to our event, a place where they feel safe and can socialise together. We did not want to let the LGBT plus and wider community down.

"It’s been a mammoth task with numerous phone calls to previous acts, calling in of favours and we’ve had amazing support from people across the borough and from within the wider LGBT plus community."

Mr Higgins praised Walsall Council and headline sponsor Homeserve for helping them put the event together – with next year set to be "bigger and better" than ever to celebrate 10 years of Walsall Pride.

More than 2,000 people turned out last year for the event which has grown "significantly" over the years, with its first event attracting around 300 people.

Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for culture and communities, said: "Sadly COVID-19 has forced many usual outdoor activities to be cancelled – as organisers have searched for other means of delivery it is a huge credit to Walsall Pride for continuing their online event over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

"Popular with many across Walsall, Walsall Pride provides an opportunity to recognise the LGBTQ living in our diverse borough – a safe space to meet, socialise and promote key messages essential to cohesion in Walsall.”

For more information on this year’s event and to take part visit www.walsallpride.org or email info@walsallpride.org.