THE organisers of Swindon's Pride says they hope to bring the event back this year, bigger and better than ever.

The team behind the LGBTQ+ event have already raised over £5,000 from holding events, which has put them in a great position with only months left to organise the family day out.

Organisers say the cancellation of last year’s festival has allowed them to re-establish themselves within the community.

Parade and social media manager Phoenix Stewart said: “We are extremely confident that we are on course to make sure Pride is back this summer.

“This year has been a real journey for everyone involved and the support has been overwhelming.

“With the loss of the Mailcoach bar last year the LGBTQ+ community had nowhere to go. But these fundraisers have been a place for the community to connect, socialise and make new friends.”

He said: “People were truly saddened to see we had taken a break last year.

"After 10 years it was the right time for this to happen.

"But the people of Swindon and Wiltshire have spoken and it is clear to see that they want Pride back.”

Last year’s parade was cancelled, with organisers citing a lack of funds and volunteers. Kickstarting this was a special fundraising event held at the Regent Hotel, Victoria Road, sought to restore Pride’s fortunes.

Since then they have gone from strength to strength with successful fundraisers being held regularly.

The group bases its success this time round on building a strong committee with everyone working relentlessly to achieve the same goal.

Phoenix added: “This event always takes hard work to ensure it is the best event possible.”

They have been working with local businesses, charities and organisations to put on a family friendly event that supports and educates about LGBTQ+ issues and services.

Organisers have applied for a grant from Tesco and are currently awaiting the outcome of this.

The supermarket's Bags of Help scheme uses the money raised by the carrier bag charge in stores to fund community projects across the UK.

To be given the grant the community must benefit from this.

If they are successful in this, it could make all the difference.

The next fundraiser is on January 26 which will be held at The Regent.