PRIDE COMES TO CAPITAL
Thousands turn out in capital
THE WELSH capital was a kaleidoscope of colour yesterday as thousands turned out for the biggest Pride Cymru yet. An estimated 10,000 people walked the mile route round Cardiff city centre for the parade, which aims to showcase diversity and equality across Wales.
The sun shone as the streets filled with music, smiles and dancing. The event, now in its 19th year, had as its Big Weekend theme #ProudToBeMe.
The parade took a new route for 2018. It previously marched down Queen Street, up The Hayes and along Mill Lane, then down High Street. This year the route went down Westgate Street, and saw the addition of floats and vehicles to make it a real spectacle.
Many who lined the route agreed it was the biggest parade to date. Hannah Weaver, 23, from Cardiff, said the parade was “amazing”.
She added: “This is my fourth or fifth year at Pride, but this is my first one properly out and it feels really freeing. I was so nervous coming in, and now I’m here my heart is exploding a little bit. There’s so much love!”
Claire Williams, 47, from the Penylan area of Cardiff, and wife Colette Clements, 46, said they’ve probably been to all of the Pride events, apart from last year, but it was their first time attending the parade.
Claire said: “It’s probably the first time we’ve watched the parade, we’ve usually got a house full! It was brilliant, very well organised. Just excellent.”
Jill Davies, 71, from Dinas Powys headed to Cardiff for the “fabulous” event.
She said: “I think it’s a fantastic occasion, I’m so proud of Cardiff because it’s such a fabulous day.
“I would have signed up to march, but I’m going on holiday at 5pm! I’ve been before but I think this one is bigger. It’s a super, happy day!”
Atahualpa Castillo, 32, who has lived in Cardiff for six months, said it was his first time attending a Pride event in the UK.
“It’s my first Cardiff Pride. I’m from Mexico so I’m used to something huge, and this was tiny in comparison, but I like the feel of it. Everyone was just nicer and happier.”
After the march, around 40,000 people were expected to enjoy the festivities at Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend.
Events take place all weekend at City Hall lawns, finishing at 11pm today. Derrick Barry, Courtney Act, Saara Aalto and Gabrielle are among this year’s acts. Others include Flip p & Fill, The Sundaes from BBC’s All Together Now and Lauren Bannon, Voice UK finalist.
There is also entertainment from Glee Comedy medy Club, a cabaret stage, a UV V roller disco, a Bingo Lingo takeover eover and beach party.
There is also food and drink, market ket stalls and family area. a.
Scott Davies, Big Weekend Event Director, said: “We can’t wait to enjoy the weekend end with our incredible ncredible community.” y.”