A CELEBRATION of the LGBT+ community will bring a town centre to life with family-friendly entertainment.

Darlington Day Time Pride will feature a parade and live performances through out the day on Saturday, July 6.

The event kicks off at 10am before drag artist Miss Ann Bag and dancers from Joanne Lowe Dance Academy, will set off on a march from the Market Square at 11am.

There will be information stalls from Darlington Borough Council, local LGBT+ organisation Darlington ARQ, Darlington Police, County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service, North East Ambulance Service and other organisations.

Andi Cull, from Darlington ARQ, said: “This will be a fabulous event, a massive inroad into celebrating diversity and inclusivity within Darlington; while also providing a fun safe space for everyone to come together and celebrate."

The event will include performances from dance schools and a singers, including tributes to Lady Gaga and Shirley Bassey.

The aim is to promote equality and diversity in Darlington and eliminate discrimination. Additional information stalls will include Family Help Darlington, Healthwatch, Samaritans, More in Common Darlington and many more.

As well as the day time event, Darlington’s time-honoured Gay Pride night will take place on August 12.

Councillor Paul Howell, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure and local environment, said: “This brilliant event, along with the Gay Pride night time event in August, is an important celebration of diversity in our town. It is great to see the support of local businesses and we look forward to a day full of fun and celebration.”

The Boot & Shoe pub, which was named an LGBT+ champion in March, has made a contribution to organising and funding the event.

Manager Chris Metters said: “It's fantastic that so many organisations have thrown their support behind the event and are setting a benchmark for years to come."