MORE than 750 people attended Monmouthshire Youth Pride at Caldicot Castle last Friday - the first local authority-sponsored event of its kind organised for Gwent’s young LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender) community.

Organisers declared it a massive success, with performers and speakers entertaining an appreciative crowd throughout the day.

Among those present were Peter Fox, leader of Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) and local MP Jessica Morden.

It was all the brainchild of a group of young people from Caldicot, including Charley and Tegan, both 15, who attend an equalities group run by Monmouthshire’s Youth Service in The Zone, the town’s youth centre. 

Among the entertainers were Wye Gymnastics, Galaxy Cheerleading, Caldicot Music Society and singers Dylan Hannan, Nicole Bowles and Newport-based Selena in the Chapel. 

Monmouthshire’s Youth Service provided activities including face painting and circus skills while a number of organisations offered help and information.

Councillor Sara Jones, Monmouthshire’s cabinet member with responsibility for equalities said: “Earlier this year, the council agreed a strategy to embed social justice into the heart of our policies and activities, addressing inequalities and improving outcomes for the county’s people, including the LGBT community.

“In line with this plan the council has wholeheartedly supported Monmouthshire Youth Pride and I’m pleased that the event was so well-received. I hope that we can promote a similar one next year.”