Luton finally announces first ever Pride for 2016

Luton is set to host its first ever LGBT+ pride event next year, against its organisers own expectations.

The Bedfordshire town was the setting for a video that went viral earlier this year, showing radio presenter Iain Lee and a male colleague holding hands in public and being bombarded with abuse – but it is hoped that the 2016 celebrations will help change its reputation.

Jake Turner-Coombs, 21 – organising the whole thing with Joanne McNally, 22 – told local paper Luton Today: “To get to where we are now, it feels like a massive achievement. We’ve got backing off so many people, our list of sponsors is growing all the time.

“Seven years ago, a pride application was thrown out and it was something I was scared about. It went to consultation with only one objection, from someone using a faith argument.”

Thousands of pounds in sponsorship has already been pledged, including from political parties such as Labour, the Conservatives and UKIP; with local gay bars California Inn and Flame promising to be a huge part of proceedings.

McNally added: “It’s attracting people of all ages. It’s why we’re getting as many people involved as possible.”

Luton Pride will take place in St George’s Square on July 23, 2016, with a public meeting slated for September 25 at the town’s Red Lion Pub.