The Brighton & Hove Pride community parade, village party and festival events are cancelled again this year due to continuing impact of Covid in running such large events.
It’s an important community event in our city’s cultural calendar to promote LGBTQ equality and inclusion and will be much missed.
We’re marking the city’s traditional Pride week by flying the inclusive pride flags on Hove and Brighton town halls
We recognise that a lot of people will also want to mark the weekend but, with Covid rates in the city still high, we’re asking everyone to take steps to keep themselves safe and Covid-free.
Emergency services are still overstretched, so please look after yourself to avoid adding any extra pressure.
Take a lateral flow Covid test yourself before you go out to meet up with friends, even if you’re feeling fine.
One in three people with Covid don’t get symptoms so it’s possible to catch the virus and give it to other people without knowing it. Don’t risk it.
You can pick up packs of free home lateral-flow test kits from chemists or Jubilee Library.
And if you have any Covid symptoms – new cough, change of sense of taste or smell, or a high temperature – don’t go out, stay home and book a PCR Covid Test to keep you and your friends safe.
We’re still encouraging everyone who can to wear a mask in enclosed and crowded spaces. It’s also wise keep to small groups and try to avoid the busiest areas.
Drink and drugs can also impact your ability to remain aware of Covid safety – please be responsible and help keep yourself and others safe.
If you’re planning to travel, trains and buses are expected to be busy. Trains may be limited or cancelled at short notice due to the ongoing impact of Covid-19.
Check the latest information at www.nationalrail.co.uk and www.buses.co.uk before you travel.
Councillor Steph Powell, co-chair of the Tourism, Equalities, Communities & Culture committee, said:
“It’s a great shame that we’ll be missing our spectacular Pride community parade, festival and party for the second year running. We look forward to Pride returning better than ever next year.
“If you are celebrating the weekend, there’s plenty of city and seafront to take advantage of if you want to avoid the crowds.
“Let’s have a safe, happy and Covid-free weekend to help keep Brighton & Hove open for everyone.”
