Destruction of recently-installed Rushden Pride sign ‘devastating’ but organisers of event undeterred by vandals
A sign advertising a Pride event in Rushden has been removed after it was burned in what police have labelled a hate crime.
Organisers of the event feel ‘targeted’ by vandals, as the banner, which was installed in May, was a replacement for a previous advertisement which was removed from its spot near Spencer Park last month.
Sapphire Matthewman, an organiser of the event, said: “It’s absolutely devastating. After the first banner going missing to have this one burnt is now feeling like we are targeted, it’s been officially documented by the police as a hate crime now.
“But we are not letting this get us down. Rushden Pride is in full swing next week, the police will patrolling the event to ensure a safe event, let’s make this rise up even more and celebrate inclusivity and love together.”
The new sign, which was fastened to railings near Spencer Park in Rushden, was bought by Northampton-based drag queen, Traya Buns, who will feature at the Pride event which starts on June 19 for a three-day celebration concluding on June 21.
The weekend is in aid of local disability charity SERVE and Stonewall, an organisation which advocates for the continued rights of people in the LGBTQ+ community.
Entertainment includes live lip sync, karaoke and a drag show, as well as performances from Big About Singing Corby Community Choir, Queen classics from Mario Megaro and local dance group Born 2 Dance Northamptonshire.