One of the things I’ve always believed in is balance when it comes to charitable giving. While I’m proud to raise and donate large sums to established national charities, I also love to support smaller, grassroots organisations. These community-led causes are often the ones making the most immediate difference to people’s everyday lives.

This year’s Didsbury Pride was a perfect example of why that matters so much to me. Set up by my long-time friend Michael Pollard in 2018, the event was born out of both heartbreak and determination: heartbreak at the loss of Lizzie Lowe, a local teenager who tragically felt unable to come out, and determination to ensure that no young person should ever feel unsafe, unseen, or unsupported again.

From those beginnings, Didsbury Pride has grown into something truly special. What started as a gathering of around 600 people has flourished into a celebration attracting nearly 6,000 attendees, with music, food, family activities, the Rainbow Walk, and so much more. It was an honour to contribute £15,000 from the Dr Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball 2024 towards this year’s event, ensuring its growth and helping to expand programming that reaches young people and families across the community.

For me personally, Didsbury Pride feels a lot like Pride did “back in the day.” It’s about community, friendship, and giving back. It’s grassroots, authentic, and driven by people who simply care about making their corner of the world better. And in this case, the people behind it are friends I’ve known since my younger days, which makes it even more meaningful.

The atmosphere at this year’s Pride was electric – full of joy, love, and unity. From the Manchester Proud Chorus and the Didsbury Daytime Singers to DJ sets and youth performances, the day was packed with talent. The headline performance by the iconic Sybil, one of the defining voices of the 90s, was a particular highlight and had everyone dancing and singing along.

For me, Didsbury Pride really is one of the best Prides in the country. It shines a light on local voices, builds bridges across the community, and reminds us all why inclusion matters. Supporting causes like this is what my fundraising journey has always been about: making sure that every child, young person, and family feels safe, supported, and celebrated.

Here’s to love, inclusion, and community – and to many more years of Didsbury Pride