Swindon & Wiltshire Pride has unveiled its Stride for Pride fundraiser, set to take place this Sunday, 22nd September, at Coate Water.
This event marks the launch of their 2025 fundraising campaign, with participants walking two laps around the lake in a vibrant show of support for the LGBTQIA+ community. Registration is £20, or walkers are asked to raise a minimum of £50 through sponsorships, with the event kicking off at 11am.
Sue Farrell, Fundraising Manager for Swindon & Wiltshire Pride, expressed her excitement about bringing the event to such an iconic Swindon location. “As a charity, we have a long association with Swindon’s parks, having hosted our annual celebrations at three of the town’s best-loved green spaces. We’re thrilled to bring Stride for Pride to Coate Water as we kick-start what we hope will be a thrilling 12 months for the organisation,” Sue said.
The event is essential for securing funding for Swindon & Wiltshire Pride, ensuring the annual Pride celebration remains free to attend while supporting vital year-round work with local youth groups and community initiatives.
Sue added, “Fundraising plays a crucial role in securing the future of our event and keeping it accessible for everyone. It also enables us to continue supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, allowing others to express themselves as freely as I do. It’s this sense of freedom and support that continues to inspire me every day.”
Last month’s Pride celebration at GWR Park saw a record-breaking 10,000 attendees. Paul Stewart, Chairperson of Swindon & Wiltshire Pride, noted how successful the event had been and the importance of continued community backing. “If everyone who attended this year’s Pride donated just £1, we could make the 2025 event even bigger and better while expanding our community outreach programmes.”
For those looking to take part or learn more, further details and registration can be found at swindonwiltshirepride.co.uk/event-tickets.
