Dereham pride committee delighted by success of first event

Ben Greentree, secretary of the Dereham Does Pride committee, said the July 1 party at the King’s Head Hotel in Norwich Street was a huge success.

He said around 800 people attended alongside stall holders selling food, drinks, and more. 

Mr Greentree said the eight-member committee was "taken back" by the reception to the party.

Dereham Does Pride was believed to be attended by around 800 people, and featured stall holders selling food, drinks, and local businesses selling products, as well as entertainment (Image: Scott Turner)

“It was phenomenal, he said. "We had great weather, a good crowd, a great atmosphere with no trouble, it was just a really good event.

“I had people coming up and thanking us for the event, but we don’t do it for the thanks, it was about bringing diversity to Dereham. We are delighted with how it went.

“We’re so grateful to the businesses, especially the King’s Head, the people and communities who got involved."

Entertainment included singers, a quiz in which 25 teams took part, drag queens, the local choir Rockavox, and even a dog show.

There was also a rainbow trail, with more than 60 businesses putting a pride-supporting sticker in their window to feature in a 'pride guide'.

Mr Greentree said: “The importance of this event is colossal.

"The world is changing and in some countries, being a queer individual can have huge ramifications.

"By doing this event, we are bringing communities together who might not usually interact with one another and celebrating love and diversity.”

Plans have already turned to next year. Dereham's second pride event will take place on July 6, 2024 - and there may even be a march.

In the meantime, the committee is planning fundraising, with plans to participate in the town's Christmas lights switch-on, and host a monthly quiz night.