Newport was a sea of rainbows and glitter at the weekend for the city’s first ever pride festival. Organised by Andrew Mudd and Adam Smith with the help of sponsors including Newport Bus, Dragon Taxis, Newport City Homes and Newport City Council, Belle Vue Park played host to a carnival atmosphere for young and old before many hit the city centre to party into the night.
Children danced in their droves as drag act Ruby Slippers and DJ Kim performed at the bandstand, outdoor bars served drinks throughout the day, and the tea rooms were heaving. Stalls were set up by Queer Emporium and others to spread awareness of all-inclusive spaces, while cofounder of the Terrence Higgins Trust Martyn Butler OBE spoke to people about the charity’s endless efforts in furthering HIV prevention in Wales.
Many left messages of thanks to organisers and wrote about what they would say to those struggling to come to terms with their sexuality or gender. One person wrote how they came out on Saturday, after 50 years of keeping it to themselves. Co-organiser Adam said the message left him in tears and provided a perfect example of why pride is needed.
