THOUSANDS of people are expected to descend on Sherborne this weekend as the town hosts its biggest Pride celebration yet.

Now in its third year, Sherborne Pride returns on Sunday, June 28 from 10am to 10pm with organisers hoping for record crowds under this year’s theme: We Choose Love.

The free, volunteer-led event will begin with a colourful parade through the town before arriving at Pageant Gardens where a packed programme of live entertainment, community activities and family attractions will run throughout the day.

Headlining this year’s festival is chart-topping dance duo Booty Luv, known for hits including Boogie 2Nite, Shine and Some Kinda Rush.

Visitors can also enjoy performances from soul singer REIGNS, country duo The Double Dollys, drag collective Haus of Silk, cabaret performers including Demi Noire, as well as circus workshops, community stalls, food vendors and family-friendly activities.

Organisers said that while the entertainment continues to grow each year, the heart of Pride remains the same.

“The stage is wonderful and the performers are incredible, but Pride has always been about people,” said co-founder Hannahlou Buttriss-Fell.

“Every year we receive messages from people who tell us that seeing Pride in Sherborne helped them feel accepted, seen or less alone. Those stories are why we do this. Visibility matters. Community matters. And showing up for one another matters more than ever.”

The event comes at a time when many LGBTQIA+ people feel increasingly uncertain about their place in society with organisers hoping the festival will send a strong message of welcome and inclusion from the heart of Dorset.

Co-founder Hannah Wilkins added: “At its heart, Sherborne Pride isn’t about division. It’s about bringing people together. It’s about celebrating what we have in common.

“It’s about creating a place where people can show up as themselves and be met with joy.

“That’s what Pride means to us. That’s why we’re inviting everyone to join us.”