'Do not drink on the street' warn Leeds Pride organisers as 2020 event cancelled
The organisers of Leeds Pride have warned people not to drink alcohol on the street this weekend following the cancellation of the annual event.
The LGBT celebrations were due to take place on Sunday, August 2 but have been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
People planning to celebrate in the city centre have been reminded that bars and venues are operating at limited capacity and booking is strongly advised.
Organisers are encouraging people to celebrate at home and tag #LeedsPrideAtHome on social media.
In a statement, Leeds Pride said: "Please note, drinking alcohol on the street without an event licence is prohibited in Leeds city centre.
"Leeds Pride does not have a licence in place this weekend so if you are intending on celebrating with a drink, please ensure it is at an appropriate venue.
"We also ask you to respect the social distancing guidelines in place when out in the city."
There will be virtual pride celebrations taking place around the UK and people in Leeds are encouraged to mark what would have been the city's 15th annual event in a 'safe and fun' way.
Councillor Hannah Bithell, Leeds City Council’s LGBT+ Champion said: "It is a shame Leeds Pride could not go ahead this weekend, especially as 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of the first major Pride march in New York in 1970.
"Leeds Pride is a fantastic celebration of our LGBT+ communities, is free to everyone, and continues to develop each year.
"I know the event will continue to grow as soon as it is able to, but for now we must celebrate differently in order to keep everyone safe."
Leeds Pride is set to return on August 1 2021.
A message from the Editor:
Leeds has a fantastic story to tell - and the Yorkshire Evening Post has been rooted firmly at the heart of telling the stories of our city since 1890.
We believe in ourselves and hope you believe in us too. We need your support to help ensure we can continue to be at the heart of life in Leeds. https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/news/why-yorkshire-evening-post-needs-your-support-laura-collins-yep-editor-2913382 Subscribe to our website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app.
With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe. For more details on our newspaper subscription offers click here.
Thank you
Laura Collins Editor