SUPPORTERS of the Solway’s first pride event say it will be a celebration of diversity, fun and entertainment.

And they believe they have the perfect setting - on the splendour of Silloth Green.

The event was given the green light last year when the application was discussed at a full meeting of Silloth town council, seeing councillors voting in favour of it taking place.

The festival has been organised by Owen Martin and other members of the Rotary Club of Silloth.

Owen said: “Silloth Pride is a first event of its type in Silloth. It will involve lots of entertainment. There will be something to entertain everyone.

“The idea came from a few of my friends. At first I didn’t know if people would want it or not so were asked and had a great response.”

Organisers have been planning the event for 10 months and say it has not been easy because it is a completely new event for the town. It will run from 12pm until 7pm with a jam-packed line-up.

There will be entertainment from local musician Michael T Ogilvie, Lee Adams, Joel Indiana, Mama-Sang and the Robots, Marblmoon, entertainer and musician Liam Tanner will perform, along with belly dance troupe Jewels of the Desert and much more.

Also on offer will be a youth zone, graffiti, funfair, dancers, a health and wellbeing zone, local crafts, poetry, and guest speakers.

“I’m very excited about it,” added Owen.

“Silloth is a unique town and has the perfect setting for any event.

“We’re all looking forward to welcoming people to Silloth.

“It’s an opportunity to highlight diversity in a rural setting and show people how caring communities are.”

Mayor of Silloth, Mark Orchard, said: “Silloth is welcoming its first ever pride event organised by Owen Martin and the Rotary Club of Silloth.

“A lot of effort has gone into the preparation and planning of this event by all those involved and hopefully the sun will be shining this weekend.

“To show your support, Silloth Pride starts at 12pm on Saturday.”

Although this is the first pride event in Silloth, it is not the first in Cumbria.

Cumbria Pride is due to take place this September at Carlisle Castle and will celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Th headline act for Cumbria Pride is being kept tightly under wraps by organisers. But, in the meantime, there are plenty of events in the works in the run-up to the main event in September, including Stride for Pride at Hammonds Pond next month.

The next event to take place on Silloth Green is Silloth Soul Saturday on August 3.