Organisers of a Pride event in Cheshire have unveiled a new leadership team, as plans for next year’s event begin to take shape.
Congleton Pride is due to enter its seventh year, with outgoing chair Malcolm Pope thanking volunteers and sponsors for their support.
Abby Smith and Ronan Clayton were elected as co-chairs for 2025-26, with Abby leading on campaigns and Ronan on events.
Mr Pope added it had been the honour of his life to chair the group.
Thousands of people visited the town centre for the event in July, and those behind it have also been running a number of social events throughout the year.
These included regular coffee afternoons, evening fundraising events and the Listening Project which allows Congleton Pride members and the wider public to learn more about LGBT life.
Members were thanked for their vigilance in relation to hate incidents in the town – including some instances which had involved arrests being made by the police.
The committee discussed their plans for 2026 – conceding that financial, political and personnel pressures weighed heavily.
There was consideration given to the idea of a fallow year, but it was felt that the visibility of a showcase event was important.
As a result, organisers said there would be a “‘slimmed down” Congleton Pride in 2026, due to take place on 18th July, with details set to be confirmed in the coming months.
The new Pride committee said they were keen to recruit more volunteers to help with things like social media and event management.
Event marshals and general volunteers were also welcome, they said.
Congleton Pride was founded in 2018 with the aims of promoting equality, celebrating diversity, and building a stronger, more inclusive community.
The first event was held in 2019 and it has grown each year since – strengthening links with local businesses, charities and church groups.
Congleton Pride is a registered charity and relies on sponsorship to help deliver its annual Pride celebration and year-round community activities.
