On Air Now

Through The Decades

8:00pm - 9:00pm

Now Playing

Gala

Freed From Desire

Listen Live Watch

Hundreds turn up for Rochdale's first ever Pride Parade

Tuesday, 16 July 2024 08:30

By David Murphy

Credit: David Murphy / Roch Valley Radio

Hundreds of people attended Rochdale Borough Council’s first ever Rochdale in Rainbows Pride parade, on Saturday 13 July.

The parade was a huge success, which looped around the pedestrianised area around The Esplanade in front of the newly-restored Rochdale Town Hall. It finished off with everyone taking part in a cat walk, led by drag queen Viola, to proudly display their flags and outfits.

After the parade, celebrations continued in the Bright Hall which saw an astounding collaboration of partners, residents, community groups and performers, coming together to enjoy the music and entertainment.

Carl Austin Behan, GM LGBTQ+ community ambassador, began the speeches followed by Councillor Neil Emmott, leader of the council, Councillor Janet Emsley, deputy mayor, one of the founders of Rochdale in Rainbows, and newly-elected Rochdale MP, Paul Waugh.

A heartfelt poem was delivered by Jessica Hinsley, a young person, part of Rochdale youth services about inclusion, being accepted and recognised.

Coun Emsley said: “The attendance of this event has far exceeded our expectations with members of our LGBTQ+ community and allies across the borough showing solidarity in their masses. It was wonderful to see The Esplanade saturated in rainbow colours with everyone proudly waving their pride progress flags.

“The newly restored Bright Hall hosted the celebrations that followed and was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who attended, making it the foundation for an annual event.”

Paul Waugh MP said: “I am so pleased to have been at Rochdale in Rainbows first ever Pride parade and the celebrations that followed. It was my first event as MP for Rochdale and I was so very proud of the borough for a tremendous turnout.

“It was really good to see so many people supporting our LGBTQ+ community, we have certainly come far, but I realise there is still much to do, to which I pledge my commitment and support.

“Thank you to all the organisations and everyone who showed their support, and thank you and congratulations

 to Rochdale Borough Council for organising such a successful Rochdale in Rainbows Pride event.”

32 of 65

More Galleries

Parklife 2026 Day One
Prestwich Carnival 2026
ELR Vintage Vibes 2026 - Sat 24 May 26
Rochdale In Rainbows 2024
Credit: Roch Valley Radio

Share

 

Share

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

 

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

 

Recently Played

Newsletter

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

   

Coming up next On Air

  • Through The Decades

    8:00pm - 9:00pm

    with Austin Hart for a musical journey from the 1960s to today, spinning timeless tracks and hidden gems, all tied together with a brand-new theme every Sunday at 8pm.

  • The Sunday Night Session

    9:00pm - 11:00pm

    with Damien signing the Weekend off in style. All Genres - One Session.

  • The Quiet Storm

    11:00pm - 1:00am

    Join Paul Harvey on The Quiet Storm as he plays the world’s greatest love songs to end your day.

  • Wide Awake Club

    1:00am - 5:00am

    For those who find themselves awake at 3am more often than they’d like. Calm music, understanding voices and quiet company.

  • Up Before the Alarm

    5:00am - 7:00am

    for early starters, commuters and anyone already on their second brew. Livelier music and new voices warming things up before breakfast.

  • Monday Breakfast

    7:00am - 10:00am

    getting you out of bed and to work and school with great music and headlines.

Roch Valley Radio is a not-for-profit radio station serving Bury and Rochdale including the surrounding areas on DAB, your Smart Speakers and Online.

© Copyright 2026 Roch Valley Radio CIC. Powered by Aiir.