Queers on the Pier! - Blackpool Pride 2008

Last weekend ( 17^th - 18^th May) saw the 3^rd Annual Blackpool Pride festival took place and with over 8000 people in attendance the parade and party really did go with a bang.

This year’s event also saw BPNW have an official presence for the first time, with staff and volunteers manning an information and resources stand on the North Pier, alongside our sister organisations Blackpool Body Positive and S.H.I.V.E.R, whom we would like to thank for making our visit such a welcoming and memorable time for all of us. 

Not only did everyone involved have a fantastic time but we also got down to the serious business at hand; promoting the safe sex message by handing out our free condom packs and information about our free rapid HIV testing services. 

BPNW’s representatives could also be found “working” the Exposition and networking with other organisations who were represented there such as, UNISON, Lancashire Constabulary and Lancashire Fire and Rescue services, Indeed by the end of the day there was not a Policeman or Firemen who was not wearing a Red Ribbon or a BPNW Helpline Sticker (Thanks to FR Peter our “Sticker Vicker!”).

We would also like to thank The Worshipful Mayor, Councillor Mary Smith and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Valerie Haynes for taking time out from their busy day to come and have a chat with us on the Information Stand.

But most of all we would like to thank all the people that came to us at the stand to ask for help, advice and information or maybe for just a Drumstick lolly or Cola Bottles!!!

See you all at next years Blackpool Pride or If you can’t wait that long will be at Oldham Pride and parade on July 26^th or at Manchester Pride in August.