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Ripon Pride organisers thank local business for helping expand popular event

Monday, 29 June 2026 07:45

The Black Swan Pride returned for a fourth year.

Organisers of Ripon's annual Pride celebrations have thanked a local business whose support helped the event grow into a two-day festival this year.

The Black Swan Pride, now in its fourth year, returned earlier this month with live music, entertainment, face painting and independent food stalls, celebrating and supporting the city's LGBTQ+ community.

A £500 donation from Specsavers Ripon enabled organisers to extend the event across the weekend and book additional acts, including Britain's Got Talent performer Finley Carter.

Sara Hirst, landlady at The Black Swan, said:

"Kelly and I organised this weekend to help transform our city into a welcoming space where everyone feels accepted and free to be themselves without judgment.

"Hosting a Pride weekend is for anyone to express themselves and feel supported by a caring community is truly wonderful.

"We're grateful for the support from local businesses, especially the team at Specsavers Ripon, whose donation allowed us to extend the festivities this year.

"It’s positive to see our city united through love and acceptance, and we’re excited to see how our Pride celebration grows in the years ahead!"

Annette Duffy, Retail Director at Specsavers Ripon, added:

"On behalf of our team, we're truly proud to have supported The Black Swan in expanding their Pride celebrations over the weekend.

"We always value the opportunity to give back to communities across the city, and we understand just how much this event means to residents, and how important inclusive spaces are for people to connect, support their community’s creatives, and express themselves, so to be part of helping spread positivity throughout Ripon has been fantastic."

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