Sunderland fundraiser launches Summer of Pride Festival

The event at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland on Saturday night drew around 700 attendees.

Organised by LGBTQ+ charity OUT North East, the concert marked the official start of the Summer of Pride programme, which includes Pride events in Sunderland, South Tyneside, and Gateshead.

Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)

Peter Darrant, CEO of OUT North East, said: “This was a fantastic evening and shows what a successful partnership can bring.

“Not only was it a celebration of Pride but it had a huge economic benefit to the Sheepfolds and shows how Pride plays its part in supporting the local economy.”

The fundraiser featured live music and was promoted as a free community event to raise funds and awareness for the wider festival.

Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)

Organisers said the night underlined the positive impact of Pride events on the local area, both culturally and economically.

The festival continues throughout the month with a full schedule of activities.

Events include a Pride march and rally on Saturday, June 27, along with additional concerts, film screenings, family-friendly gatherings, and sports activities across the region.

Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)

Around 700 people attended a fundraiser concert at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland to launch the North East’s new Summer of Pride Festival (Image: Supplied)