Hundreds of people from across Bracknell came together to mark the town’s first Pride celebrations in what is said to be a ‘historic moment’.

From 12pm to 7pm, Bond Square was turned into the a concert venue and event space, hosting a varied setlist of performers.

The event, organised by Bracknell Forest Council, brought people of all ages, genders and sexual orientation together.

From first-timers to Pride veterans, everyone agreed that this has been ‘a turning point’ for the LGBTQ+ community.

Adrian Derbyshire shared a touching Father – Daughter moment as he accompanied 18-year-old Lily-Mai to her first Pride.

He said: “I’m here supporting my daughter. It’s her first Pride so quite a historic moment for Bracknell. 

“There’s a really nice vibe here today and I think it will be even better than what has been promised.”

The acts that were planned to perform throughout the day included the kids from Artemis College, drag act Big Jay, BARTA Theatre Academy, Steph Willis and many others.

Drag artist, Big Jay spoke to the News before their set - speaking passionately about the importance of having a space where the LGBTQ+ community can find the place where they belong.

They said: "I think today is a turning point. It is absolutely fantastic that it is finally happening. If I had something like this when I was growing up, I may not have stayed in the closet for so long.

"I think that this is so important for young people who may feel like they don't belong and for the community as a whole to celebrate and recognise diversity and inclusion."

According to organisers and council officials, the community have played a big part in the planning and collaboration for 2023 Bracknell Forest Pride.

Leader of the council, Mary Templeton spoke out about her wish for everyone to have a safe space and to be able to grow up in a place that they are proud to say they are from. 

She said: "It's such an amazing day. People have come to Bracknell and the weather is amazing. I've been here since it started (at 12pm) and I've seen so many people come and go but some people have been here all day and the atmosphere is incredible. 

"I'm so proud to be here because it's such a wonderful event.

"It's taken a while for Bracknell to organise a Pride but I think that it is here to stay. It's important to show everyone that we are an inclusive town and that everyone should have a safe place to grow up and be proud to say that they are from Bracknell. 

"Today everyone has been up, dancing and clapping because they do feel involved, and they do feel part of the community. And that’s what Bracknell is.”

Alayna Rezzell, head of communications and marketing team at Bracknell Forest Council said: "This is the first real community event that Bracknell Forest Council has organised in a while and it's turned out to be a huge success. 

"Our main aim is to turn the space at Bond Square into a recognisable outdoor events space and I think that today will help to further embed and concrete that idea which we have had since the beginning.

"Having so much community support behind us is so heart-warming and it makes you feel like you want to live in Bracknell."