Two new events lined up by Pride festival organisers

ORGANISERS of the Doncaster Pride festival have announced that two new events are set to be held next month, in addition to the main festival in August.

The future of Doncaster Pride seemed uncertain last year, when the town's controversial new mayor, Peter Davies, announced that he would cut funding for the event.

However, he later backtracked on this decision. Though a decision on funding from Doncaster Council for this year's festival has not yet been made, organisers say that it will go ahead regardless.

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Chairman of the Doncaster Pride committee, Trevor Jones, said: "After such an amazing event last year we've decided to pull out the stops for 2010 and really make a difference for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in Doncaster.

"We're starting the year with Doncaster's first ever Pride Valentine's Dinner, which will take place on February 13 at the Danum Hotel."

Mr Jones said that the dinner will feature an "exclusive" dining area for gay diners, as well as entertainment from local performers.

Tickets, costing 25, can be purchased direct from the hotel.

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The following week a series of events will take place to mark LGBT History Month, including an exhibition at Gallery 12A on South Parade and a film evening at the Little Theatre.

Mr Jones added: "We wanted to show everyone that Pride isn't about a party in August.

"It's now a year long effort to promote equality and diversity for the gay community and, in doing so, increase understanding and tolerance by welcoming anyone to our events, no matter their sexuality."

Doncaster Pride, which includes a parade as well as an all-day stage show in Doncaster town centre, is now in its fourth year and is billed as the "fastest-growing regional Pride in the country."