Stand Proud 3 Set for Biggest Celebration Yet

Excitement is building ahead of this year’s Stand Proud in Hailsham – Stand Proud 3 – as organisers prepare to welcome residents and visitors to a full day of entertainment, celebration and community spirit.

Taking place at The White Hart in Horsebridge on Saturday 27th June from midday through to midnight, the event will once again bring together people of all backgrounds to celebrate Pride Month, promote inclusion and demonstrate support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Following the overwhelming success of the previous two events, this year’s celebration is expected to attract an even larger audience, with an extensive programme of live music, family entertainment, activities and performances taking place throughout the day and evening.

The continued growth and success of Stand Proud in Hailsham has been made possible thanks to the generous support of its sponsors. Hailsham Town Council has played a significant role in helping to deliver the event, providing £1,700 in funding towards the overall £4,000 cost of staging the celebration.

Organisers have expressed their sincere gratitude to the Town Council for its commitment to supporting inclusive community events, alongside the valuable contributions of other sponsors including The White Hart, Victoria Lily Events, Cameos Door Security, Harvey’s Brewery and Steven & Carter. Their collective support has ensured that Stand Proud 3 can once again offer a free, accessible and high-quality event for the whole community to enjoy.

Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of entertainment throughout the day. The event will be officially opened by Neil Povey and the Town Crier before performances from acoustic duo The Management, covers band School’s Out, rock, indie and pop group Nightflame, and rhythm and blues favourites Moss Casa.

Returning by popular demand is headline performer Fonda Cox, whose previous appearances at Stand Proud have been a major highlight of the event. Additional entertainment will include children’s activities with Mike Elvin, the Sweet Circus Experience, Name That Tune with DJ Neil Povey, Rainbow Bingo hosted by Sam, and the Pink Povey Club to bring the celebrations to a close.

The full programme of activities is as follows:

With another large attendance expected following the popularity of last year’s event, visitors are encouraged to bring picnic chairs or blankets for additional seating. A 7pm watershed will also remain in place to help ensure the event continues to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all those attending.

Mary Laxton, co-organiser of Stand Proud in Hailsham, said: “The incredible support we have received from our sponsors has enabled Stand Proud to grow into the much-loved community event it has become today. We are particularly grateful to Hailsham Town Council and all of our sponsors, whose generosity and belief in the importance of inclusion have made it possible for us to deliver a celebration that is free and accessible to everyone.”

“Each year, Stand Proud brings together people from different backgrounds, ages and communities in a positive atmosphere of acceptance, friendship and celebration. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to what promises to be our biggest and best event yet.”

Co-organiser Colin Mitchell added: “Stand Proud is about creating a space where everyone feels respected, valued and able to be themselves. The continued backing from local organisations and businesses demonstrates the strength of support for diversity and equality within our community.”

“We are extremely thankful to all those who have contributed their time, resources and funding to help make Stand Proud 3 possible. We hope residents and visitors will come along, enjoy the fantastic entertainment on offer and join us in celebrating a community that welcomes everyone.”

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