ORGANISERS of Swindon and Wiltshire Pride have spoken of their joy at being shortlisted for a prestigious award courtesy of the South West’s biggest LGBT radio show.

Swindon and Wiltshire Pride has been nominated for the Best All-Round LGBT and Community Event in Bristol-based ShoutOut Radio’s Listeners’ Awards 2017.

The awards give members and friends of the South West’s LGBT community the chance to say who they think deserves special recognition for the role they play in their local community.

The categories include Best Nightclub, Best Barperson, Best Drag Artist, Best Festival and many more.

Phoenix Stewart, Swindon Pride’s parade coordinator, was thrilled to receive the nomination.

He said: “Being shortlisted for a Bristol based award is absolutely fantastic. Many people come from Bristol to enjoy Swindon and Wiltshire pride every year and that shows just how close we are as a community, and we appreciate the support.

“Just being recognised as an event that supports the LGBT community is really heart-warming because of the hours of hard work, time and fundraising that goes in to this event every year.”

A special awards ceremony will take place for the winners at the Old Market Assembly in Bristol in February.

“I think we would be ecstatic if we won,” said Phoenix.

“We are celebrating ten years of Swindon and Wiltshire Pride this year, so it would be the icing on the cake to be voted Best All-Round LGBT plus Community Event.”

Last August the town was transformed into a carnival of colour as hundreds of rainbow flags lined the streets for the Pride celebrations. And Phoenix and the team of dedicated volunteers are hoping for a similarly successful weekend this year.

The parade, which was made up of hundreds of people in bright and sparkling dress, marched through Old Town to a chorus of pounding drums and loud cheers.

Speaking about the need to maintain the tradition, Phoenix said: “There’s still a long way to go in terms of people accepting people who are different. The contribution of Pride events has been very important. This event celebrates diversity and educates people.

“We would love it if everyone could get behind us and vote for us for this award. You have until January 31 to vote.”

Swindon and Wiltshire Pride will take place this year on July 29 in Town Gardens.

If you would like to volunteer, perform, donate money to support the event or be one of the sponsors please email swinwiltspride@live.co.uk.