Thousands of people from around the county and beyond celebrated a landmark moment at a Wiltshire town’s first ever pride event.

Chippenham Pride was held at Monkton Park on Saturday, June 17, the town’s first full celebration of pride month.

The day was attended by almost 4,000 people and saw a wide array of events on different stages, including comedy, cabaret, speakers and late-night entertainment.

Ahead of the event co-founder Penny Richman said she plans for Chippenham Pride to become an annual tradition.

She added: “I’m so proud of what the team have achieved. I’m so grateful to have every single one of the committee members fighting for this event.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Chippenham Pride, 2023

Councillor Declan Baseley, the town’s youngest ever mayor, spoke of his pride at the event’s success on social media.

He said: “I’m so proud of my hometown for celebrating its first ever Pride event.

“Chippenham really is a tolerant and welcoming community where expression of the self is encouraged, and where we aren’t judged for being who we are.

“The walk through town was attended by over 500 people and island park has been packed all afternoon, we’ve attracted visitors from across the region to our town, I spoke to a couple that had come all the way from Liverpool.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Chippenham Pride, 2023

Melksham Pride will be held on Saturday, June 24.