THE LGBTQ+ community and supporters did not let the damp weather rain on their parade as Newquay Pride was a success on Saturday.

Dozens of people took part in the vibrant procession carrying the world’s largest pride flag from Beach Road to the Killacourt waving brightly coloured banners and umbrellas to support, celebrate and raise awareness.

The parade was led by Newquay mayor Drew Creek and Sam Galsworthy, The High Sheriff of Cornwall, which saw hundreds of people line street to watch the parade go by.

Shops and businesses showed their support for Pride by decorating their shopfront with flags and banners. Various organisations also attended to show their support including Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, NHS and St John Ambulance.

An extravaganza of entertainment was organised at the Killacourt, which included Them Vandalz, Alysha Vine, Vocal Presence, Jak Lewis, Rhianna Rocket and Still Dizzy.

There were also numerous stalls to support, inform and connect with the community while celebrating all things Pride LGBTQ+. The after party was held at Sailors Night Club where drag queen Varina Flower performed.

Matthew Kenworthy Gomes from Cornwall Pride said: “Newquay Pride is home to our Cornwall Pride.  We are honoured to have an incredible community in Newquay to raise awareness and support all kinds of people.

“Newquay Pride is always a great event. Although the weather is damp its does not matter.”

Mayor Drew Creek added: “Pride in Newquay is such a brilliant event. It is great to see so many people come out in Newquay to support Pride, which is its natural home. I would like to see Cornwall Pride come to Newquay at some point as its such a great community supported event, which is inclusive to all.” Sam Galsworthy, the High Sheriff of Cornwall, said: “I’m honoured to come and support pride and help celebrate diversity. There is no room for hatred in this county. There is only room for inclusion and love.”

Newquay Orchard was among the organisations that took part (Picture: Warren Wilkins) ( )

Miss England Milla Magee from Newquay attended Newquay Pride along with St John's Ambulance Truro unit, who she volunteers for.

Milla said: “St John's Ambulance are a huge part of our community. The organisation attends festivals and social events to help with minor first aid and with everything from broken bones to heat fatigue.

“They were a huge part of helping the NHS during Covid lockdown. We expect St John Ambulance to be there for the community, but don't realise that they are predominantly made up of volunteers like myself and our team leader Nicola Ginns.

“I hope that by being at Newquay Pride I can inspire some people to get involved with St John Ambulance and apply to volunteer. It's a great community, and our regular weekly meetings are great fun, and you’re really coming together, meeting new people and learning amazing lifesaving skills, like CPR, something I am passionate about with my 'Beauty with a Purpose'  project GoFarwithCPR.

“Let's create a world of mini lifesavers, to help our NHS, and help to save lives.”