SWINDON Pride has been cancelled this year because not enough people have come forward to run it.

The shock announcement came in the wake of a successful 10th anniversary event in the Town Gardens last year.

In a statement organisers said: “Swindon and Wiltshire Pride has brought communities together over the last ten years, showcasing local, national and international talent and adding more than a splash of colour to Swindon and Wiltshire.

“The planning of what we believe to be the largest free community event in the South West is no small task. We have had our challenges this year, among them the loss of our main fundraising venue.”

“Therefore, this year we have decided to step back, take a breath and regroup in planning for the next Swindon and Wiltshire Pride event.”

It added: “Consequently, there will be no main event in 2018 and all our efforts will be put into raising funds and awareness for a main event planned for 2019.”

When she stood down as chairman of the festival organising group last year, Jo Sharpe said: “The continuation of the event in Swindon is vital to ensure that the LGBTQI community continues to feel integrated, and the event provides the opportunity for the whole community to support equality and diversity.”

Organisers are planning to use the rest of this year to raise cash for next year’s Pride and are arranging their first fundraiser in July.