STROUD Pride is back on Saturday - and all are invited to celebrate and promote inclusion and equality.

The picnic is in Bank Gardens from noon to 5pm with stalls from community groups including Stroud Against Racism, Creative Sustainability and the LGBT+ Partnerships team.

Stroud Red Band, Robynne Calvert and Up The Bug will perform and there is the chance for young upcoming LGBT+ entertainers to showcase their talent.

There will also be a bar, kindly supplied by the Queen Vic.

Craig Johnson, one of the organisers, said: “This year we have a raffle with many exciting prizes, which multiple Stroud businesses have been very kind and generous in donating to.

“Tickets will be on sale on the day so look out for the raffle stall.

“Entry to Pride is free but numbers are limited.

“Bring a picnic and enjoy an all accepting, family friendly relaxed atmosphere.

“There will be some Covid measures and we ask if anyone is experiencing symptoms they stay at home.

“We are also pleased to say the drag nights are now running independently and will be starting again at the Little Vic on August 20.

“We are also working on setting up a gender support group for our trans and non-binary friends named Trans Stars. We would like the group to be shaped by its members and lots of activities and opportunities are possible.

“Anyone wishing to attend please contact us at stroudpride@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.

"We are need volunteers for the picnic, please get in contact via email if interested.”