A TOWN is set to host its first pride event.

The event, which is being organised by Rowan Hunter, who owns the Estuary Wine Bar in Manningtree High Street, will include several fun activities

Manningtree Pride will see spots around the town host different events from sports to art and talks.

Families will also have the chance to learn about the LGBTQ+ community.

Rowan said: “I’d like to include people who don’t get a chance to go to the Colchester and Ipswich pride events.

“This event will be educational, celebrative and inclusive.

"We will have different sections such as sports where all gay rugby, cricket and netball teams will come down and speak to young people as well as host a sports day on the beach.

“Hopefully, we will have a seminar in the Masonic Hall on trans rights, inclusion and pronouns.

“Shops and businesses around the town will be providing deals on cocktails, food and other bits as well.”

Manningtree Pride will see several fundraising opportunities take place including a cabaret burlesque drag show in the Red Lion pub.

Funds will go to Colchester’s Outhouse East charity and others which will be announced at a later date.

Rowan added: “I’m a gay man and I own businesses locally, so it's an opportunity for me to help out and facilitate for a group to be formed if the inaugural event goes well.

“We can use this event to educate children and change a few people’s opinions on things like pronouns and diversity at work.

“Outhouse East does great work in the area as they’ve collaborated with Manningtree High School.”

Rowan is the vice-chairman of Manningtree Business Chamber, which has several businesses that will be contributing to the event.

Activities will take place at the beach, Manningtree fire station will host a charity car wash and a new bookshop that is opening in the coming months will contribute as well.

Manningtree Pride is looking for sponsors to back the event, which will take place on Saturday, July 8.

For more information and to get involved email estuarywinebar@gmail.com.