Isle of Wight Pride parade this weekend

It starts in Queen's Road, at midday on Saturday, and takes in Lind Street, Union Street, West Street and the Esplanade.

There will also be three days of entertainment in Eastern Gardens, making the whole weekend a celebration of diversity and inclusivity and an opportunity to give Ryde and the Island its annual coat of rainbow colours.

Among the artists to perform will be Mike Christie, Isabelle L'Amour, Milly Joliffe. Emellia, DJ Mancave, Wight Hot Pipes, Cherry Liquor and Proud Mary.

See acts from 1pm until 9pm, on July 16 to 17, and between 5.30pm and 9.30pm on July 15.

Mary P was a semi-finalist on Britain's Got Talent.

Tickets are not required this year, however as a charity, IW Pride will ask for a nominal fee to be placed in a bucket to gain entry to the different areas of the Ascensos Community Village and entertainment on Eastern Gardens.

This will apply if you leave and wish to return. Please make sure you have some change with you.

Ryde Town Council provided a generous grant and help to enable the event to take place and keep the seafront entertainment ticket free.

The Wight Hot Pipes.

Cllr Michael Lilley, Mayor of Ryde said: “We are delighted to continue Ryde’s wonderful relationship with IW Pride. The colour, the passion, the parade and all of the Pride activities bring an incredible, palpable energy to the town and it is fantastic that the community comes together to be such an integral part of the festivities.

"We look forward to Ryde remaining as IW Pride’s home for many years to come!”

Sponsors of the event include Ascensos and Hose Rhodes Dickson, with support from Hovertravel, Southern Vectis, Visit Isle of Wight and Wightlink.

Chartered Certified Accountants, Apple Accountancy Ltd have become activity involved in assisting the organisation of the day, along with House of Huns who have coordinated the entertainment.

Ryde Castle is offering support facilities, along with Bar 74 and Coburgs providing additional entertainment.

An Isle of Wight Pride spokesperson said: “We are so grateful for the support of the local business, without whom Pride on the Island would not happen."