Hundreds of people packed into a North East venue for a concert fundraiser launching a new Summer of Pride Festival for the region.
The event at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland on Saturday night drew around 700 attendees.
Organised by LGBTQ+ charity OUT North East, the concert marked the official start of the Summer of Pride programme, which includes Pride events in Sunderland, South Tyneside, and Gateshead.
Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)
Peter Darrant, CEO of OUT North East, said: "This was a fantastic evening and shows what a successful partnership can bring.
"Not only was it a celebration of Pride but it had a huge economic benefit to the Sheepfolds and shows how Pride plays its part in supporting the local economy."
The fundraiser featured live music and was promoted as a free community event to raise funds and awareness for the wider festival.
Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)
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Organisers said the night underlined the positive impact of Pride events on the local area, both culturally and economically.
The festival continues throughout the month with a full schedule of activities.
Events include a Pride march and rally on Saturday, June 27, along with additional concerts, film screenings, family-friendly gatherings, and sports activities across the region.
Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)
Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)