VIDEO: Wigan's Pride launch on day against hate

Wigan Pride 2018 being launched on Idahobit with a pop-up stall in the Grand Arcade

The organising team unveiled another spectacular rainbow fiesta which will take over the town centre in August.

This year’s theme is growth and community, with the colourful opening parade having a flower power theme and Pride working in communities around the borough in the run-up to the event.

The festival committee took to the message about the packed programme including hours of live music and entertainment to the community with a stall in the Grand Aracde Shopping Centre.

Appropriately the details of the third Wigan Pride were also revealed on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (Idahobit).

Wigan Pride organising committee chair Zak Bretherton said: “We are excited to kick off the promotion and fund-raising for Wigan Pride 2018 once again on Idahobit. We’ve continued to work hard following the success of the past two years.

“The decision on the theme came from our idea to get involved with the community and be more than just an event but make a positive impact that benefits everyone.

“This is just one of our ambitious plans and Wigan Pride 2018 is certainly not to be missed.”

Highlights of the musical bill including returning artists Donna Marie, the Manchester Lesbian and Gay Chorus, Holly Bretherton and Bud Sugar while newcomers include tributes to Green Day and Shirley Bassey and Lily and Alanna.

Wigan Pride 2018 is on Saturday August 11. Find out more, including how to apply to be in the parade, by clicking here

As part of the run-up to the 2018 Pride volunteers from the committee are doing gardening work around the borough.

Pride-themed flowerbeds and planters will be created.

Committee member Daniel Bonney said: “We are really looking forward to working directly in the communities that have supported us.

“Wigan Pride is a celebration of the diversity across the borough, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of the local people who attend and celebrate with us every year.

“Completing these planting projects and working with local people is very symbolic of us branching out and leaving a mark of pride in these communities.”