Doncaster Pride cancelled as coronavirus scuppers town's annual LGBTQ+ spectacular

Doncaster Pride has become the latest casualty of the coronavirus lockdown, with this year’s event being cancelled.
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The annual spectacular, celebrating the town’s LGBTQ+ community, was due to take place in Elmfield Park – a new venue - on August 8.

In previous years, the event has been held in Sir Nigel Gresley Square and includes a colourful parade through the town centre.

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But in a statement, organisers said the COVID-19 pandemic had meant this year’s event would have to be shelved.

Doncaster Pride has been called off.Doncaster Pride has been called off.
Doncaster Pride has been called off.

A spokesman said: “We have taken the devastating decision to cancel Doncaster Pride 2020.

“As a team this has been the most difficult thing we've ever had to do, but given the current state of emergency and the need for all of us to keep ourselves, families, friends and loved ones safe during this pandemic we feel we cannot continue to plan for an event this year.

“This decision follows guidelines from Public Health England and the UK Government regarding coronavirus and also the uncertainly of how long the current situation could last.

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“Although the event was planned for August, we have been forced to accept the reality that it's impossible for us to move forward with plans in the knowledge that the economy and businesses are struggling to survive, let alone support charities like us with sponsorship.

“Added to this we, as an organisation, can not commit to hold an event without the certainty we can bring in the required funds to pay for it or clarity on whether the ban on gatherings will be lifted in three months or not.

“We had hoped to hold off making this decision to see how things develop in the coming weeks, but the reality of the 'Iockdown' we are now in means we face potentially weeks and months ahead where the only thing certain is uncertainty.

“It is therefore with great sorrow we have today told our suppliers, sponsors and supporters of our decision.

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“One last thing... if we can deliver something this year, something small, something to unite the community when this is all over then you can rely on our amazing team to do something! Keep with us and stay safe everyone.”