THE first Pride event in Rhyl proved a huge success when it was held on Saturday (June 17) at a pub in the centre of the town.

Rhyl Pride was hosted by The Bodfor (13-15 Bodfor Street), from 2pm until late, with plans already in place for the event to return next year.

It celebrated people coming together in love and friendship, to show how far LGBTQ+ rights have come, and how in some areas, there is still work to do.

Rhyl Journal: Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17 (Image: Gary Pugh)

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It was hosted by drag artist “Shagger”, with music from Heather Marie (P!nk tribute act), Dani Elle, Kelly J, Janet Myring, Jade Courtney, Dan Coleman, Dean Morter, Tommy Barron, Hefin Roberts and Becca Parry.

Rhyl Journal: Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17 (Image: Gary Pugh)

There was also a karaoke garden party at the pub, hosted by DJ Big Al, while food was provided by the pub’s own “Snack Shack”.

This event was being held during Pride Month, which is celebrated annually in June - the month when the 1969 Stonewall riots took place.

Rhyl Journal: Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17 (Image: Gary Pugh)

It was welcome to anyone aged 18 or older, with entry free.

A spokesperson for The Bodfor said: “It was an epic day. We weren’t expecting it to be as successful as it was.

Rhyl Journal: Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17 (Image: Gary Pugh)

“All of the acts were amazing, and the garden party karaoke with DJ Big Al went down a storm - he was only meant to be on from 2-8pm, but he played until midnight as we were that busy!

“We are definitely having Pride next year, but on a larger scale. We’ll maybe see if we can have the road closed for the day, and have some stalls in the street.

Rhyl Journal: Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17Celebrations at Rhyl's first Pride event on June 17 (Image: Gary Pugh)

“We have got time to organise more this year, so watch this space, and of course, Shagger will be hosting the event again - he was thrilled with the turnout.”