GREAT Houghton’s first Pride event was a great success according to its organisers.

Earlier this month, the ‘Pride – Good To Me’ festival was funded by the Park Springs Community Benefit Fund, the North East Ward Alliance and the Great Houghton Village Hall Committee.

More than 250 people turned up on August 12.

Coun Dorothy Coates said: “t was a brilliant idea and something different for the village and the committee, as well as showing our support for the LGBTQ community.

“The committee agreed and funding applications were quickly written and agreed.

“We booked Lady Gaga, Paloma Faith and Kylie tribute acts and a DJ for the event and they did not disappoint.

“We had a tremendous amount of help from the new North East ward community development worker, Darryl Hand, which made our job a lot easier and a small team of volunteers.

“The festival was a great success.

“Those that attended saying that ‘this was what the village needed’.

“It’s been brilliant to see the village come together as one, it’s been fantastic too everyone here supporting the LGBTQ community.

“The event will definitely happen again next year, subject to funding.”

Julie Elwell, whose idea it was to start the festival, added: “I approached Dorothy and was overwhelmed when she instantly said yes.

“We pulled a team together and with the help of Darryl, we pulled together an exciting event.

“On the day 268 people attended, for a first event that was amazing and we can’t wait to plan another for next year.

“We made a great team.”