Festival to mark Gay Pride with top line-up

Organisers have announced a line-up that includes a mix of local entertainment and a sprinkling of talent from further afield.

The acts announced include singer Lesley Ball from the hit West End show Mamma Mia, and entertainer Reece Lightning who is bringing the stars of his stage show including Lesley, singers Alan and Karen Wilkinson, Shirley Bassey/Dusty Springfield tribute act Lori Laverne and local dancers from the Jackie Everton dance school.

Completing the line up are X Factor finalists Divided, folk singer Steph Little and up and coming local singers Vinnie and Becky. Vinnie comes to the event fresh from the recording studio where he has just completed his debut CD.

The event, on Sunday August 19, will kick-off at midday and provide up to six hours of entertainment. The compere is drag artist Gloria Goldburg.

In addition to the performers the organisers have promised a few surprises - strongly hinting that one of these will be an appearance by Mr Gay Manchester.

As well as the stage show there will be stilt walkers, a giant rainbow butterfly, fire eaters, street performers, children's rides and a rainbow mini-market with stalls from groups and agencies displaying their work around equality and inclusion. The market will feature information stalls, advice and guidance as well as a number of stalls selling a items including rainbow branded merchandise.

A spokesman for the event said: "We have been monitoring the reaction towards the staging of this event in Doncaster and the Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender community are increasingly determined and committed to making this event a success for our community and supporters.

"We have seen some negative comments in the local press and on websites in the last few months but we are pleased to be able to say that this has now turned around and we have seen a huge amount of support for the staging of this event.

"This is the first Pride to be staged anywhere in South Yorkshire and we hope that people will come out and support the event and be able to do so in safe and comfortable surroundings.

"There will be a strong police presence on the day to ensure people can fully enjoy the event."