By Abbie Maguire
ESSEX Pride Festival is just days away with organisers promising to transform Chelmsford for a day this Sunday.
Organisers of the Essex Pride Festival are hoping for another successful event with an array of thrilling entertainment as they encourage equality and respect among the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
Expecting the attendance to double this year, they have a line up of acts that include Extreme Dance Group, Kelly Wilde and the Boy George Experience.
Jackie Azzopardi-Johnson, Chair of Essex Pride Committee, said: "Building on the successes from last year's event Essex Pride 2010 is set to be bigger and better than ever before…Although the emphasis for the day is about having fun, and meeting new people, it will also give those from the LGBT community a chance to meet with many community organisations who will be showcasing their services."
The event is free to enter and is being held on Sunday 5 September 2010 from midday until 11.30pm, in the incredible outdoor venue of Central Park, Chelmsford.
As well as a variety of entertainment, community organisations will also be present at the event including Essex Police, Essex Drug and Alcohol Partnership, Essex County Council and Borough and District Councils and Essex County Fire and Rescue among others. Local businesses will also be at the event as well as fairground rides and free face painting to keep the youngsters entertained.
Last year, an estimated 3,000 people from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community were attracted to the event and this year they hope to make more of an impact by going above and beyond.
Gary Ormes, Secretary of Essex Pride, said: “Essex Pride helps to create a positive image, and prevents people from being hidden away to feel like they don't belong.”