Ashby town centre will be closed off for August's Pride event - with around 4,000 people expected to attend.

Pride made its debut in Ashby last year and was a big success, with a number of local businesses and bars playing their part in the day.

This year, however, Market Street and Brook Street will be closed to traffic on Saturday, August 10.

Organisers are planning a stage with live acts during the day - as well as a number of attractions for the whole family.

Ashby town centre was a blaze of colour at last year's event. Photos: Ashby Nub News

The Ashby Pride Community Interest Company says this year's event will be bigger and better than the 2023 version.

Callum Prince, Director, Ashby Pride CIC, said: "We wanted to improve on last year's Ashby Pride and we've definitely done that.

"We had so much great feedback from last year, it's something that might not have happened in Ashby, maybe five years ago.

"People just said they felt they could come into the town centre and enjoy themselves.

"Ashby's always been a welcoming place, but this event does so much to encourage inclusivity.

"But there's also an economic advantage to an event like this. We want to encourage people into the town centre and local businesses will benefit as a result. We think there could be around 4,000 people coming into Ashby based on the extra footfall from last year.

"We've also had support from Ashby de la Zouch Town Council and having the roads closed off is something that only ever happens for the Statues and the Christmas Market."

Ashby Pride CIC has announced funding from Ashby BID to enhance this year's Pride event. 

The day promises to be an entertaining festival showcasing local LGBTQIA+ artists to the stage, with fun activities, interactive street entertainment, a selection of stalls & some community workshops.

Ashby Pride organisers say the day will provide the opportunity for businesses, organisations and the community to come together in unity and show their acceptance, equality, celebrate the work of LGBTQIA+ people and raise awareness of issues affecting the LGBTQIA+ group. 

Through this support, Ashby Pride CIC says it can ensure that this event continues to serve as a beacon of hope and celebration and further highlight the richness and diversity of the town.

Callum added: "Businesses within the Ashby BID group are very proud to support the Ashby Pride 2024 event. 

"Last year was a fantastic day which drew in new visitors and was embraced by the local community. It's great to be a part of a fully inclusive occasion and we look forward to seeing the Pride event expand and grow this year.

"We're thrilled to once again be working with Ashby BID, last year would not have been possible without their support and we are extremely grateful to the board for agreeing to support Ashby Pride once again. 

"Ashby BID recognises the social and economic impact that Pride had on the town last year and together we are looking to build on that for this year's event."