Britain's longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel and the adjoining visitor centre, offered the picture-perfect backdrop for the family-friendly party.
The event
The event held 1-8pm on Sunday 19 June, featured a Drag DJ set by Gypsy Darling, a reading of ‘Rab and his Lucky Shell' by Andrea Bowker. Stall holders included local LGBTQ+ organisations The Brunswick Centre. UNISON and West Yorkshire Police joined in the celebrations.
Luke Clark from the Trust helped to organise and host the event. He said: “I'm hugely proud to have helped bring the first ever Pride event to Standedge. It's been amazing to see so many people coming along to support and show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. People never thought they would see a Pride event in Marsden and have been full of thanks for putting this on and creating a safe, friendly space to celebrate and relax.”
Celebrating 21 years
In 2022 we are celebrating 21 years since the rebirth of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and the grand reopening of Standedge Tunnel. Visitors can step on board a trip boats to explore deep beneath the beautiful Pennine countryside, find out more about the history of the tunnel in the Visitor Centre, enjoy a canalside stroll in stunning surroundings, and top it all off with tea and cake in the Watersedge Cafe.
We're also celebrating our 10th anniversary in 2022 and we're asking people to #ActNowForCanals - to support their local waterway, from volunteering projects, citizen science surveys, to raising funds or clearing up litter. Every small action can make a huge difference.
