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Gay Pride News: Lack of support from statutory bodies has forced the organisers of the first Worcester Pride to cancel the event.
By: Nigel Robinson
Worcester Pride will return in 2011
Worcester Pride will return in 2011
Worcester Pride cancelled due to lack of local and financial support.
Worcester Pride, which was due to have taken place on 18th September, will be rescheduled for next year.
A series of mini-events will now take place in Worcester between 17th and 18th September.
Organisers blamed the current economic recession, the change of government and lack of local support for the decision to cancel Pride.
In a statement Worcester Pride said that among local statutory bodies there had been “a growing unwillingness to engage with the community and group”.
Lee Winters of Worcester Pride said that the local fire and rescue service had withdrawn £1,500 of funding and the promise of providing marshals for the day.
Without that support the Worcester Pride was uncertain whether they could provide the level of support required on the day.
A spokesman for Worcester Fire and Rescue Service told the Worcester News:
“Due to delays by the promoters of Worcester Pride in organising the event, and the recent significant pressures that public sector finances are now facing, it was felt important that events requiring direct funding were reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
“The review of the service’s financial support of Worcester Pride resulted in the withdrawal of financial support – but the offer of non-cost support remained in place. “
For a full list of all UK Prides visit the Pride Life UK Gay Prides page
