Cowbridge is set to host its first Pride event thanks to Steps star Ian ‘H’ Watkins.

The pop singer, who is openly gay, is organising Cowbridge Pride, having lived in the town with his children for the last seven years.

Cowbridge Pride will take place 19^th-25^th September to raise awareness about diversity, inclusion and representation in the town.

The week-long event will consist of events, activities, art installations, education, talks and exhibitions for everyone to enjoy, with all of the money raised going to Cowbridge schools for LGBTQI+ resources. 

The Gala Fundraiser, sponsored by Bont Gin, at the Bear Hotel, hosted by BBC’s Owain Wyn Evans, Tina Sparkle and H, sold out within an hour, with other events including a Pride disco at the Horse & Groom, a Pride Fashion Show at The Bear Hotel, A Pride Boozy Brunch at Bont Gin, and a LGBTQI+ Q&A at Cowbridge Town Hall available still to book.

A special edition craft beer is being brewed by The Coach Brewing Co which will be available at selected outlets throughout the town. £1 from every pint sold will be donated to the cause.

On organising the event, the Steps singer, said: “The world has changed since I was growing up. I want my children to grow up celebrating diversity and representation. It’s important that Cowbridge reflects that.”

During the week, Pride inspired art installations will be seen through the town, together with Pride bunting and decorated window displays.

Ian continued: “This is my passion project. Something I’ve wanted to do for a while and this year it’s happening. We’ve got lots of exciting things planned and more to be announced, but this is only the start. We’re already planning for Cowbridge Pride 2023 and we can’t wait to share this special event with everybody.”

Welsh singer and presenter Caryl Parry Jones, said: “I’ve lived in Cowbridge for the past 34 years and during that time witnessed huge changes locally, nationally and internationally. It’s a source of both joy and celebration that Cowbridge has given Pride Week a massive cwtch and accepts that love has no boundaries and that the world belongs to us all.”

Many local Cowbridge-based businesses, including communications agency jamjar and Maes Glas Vets, are getting behind Cowbridge Pride through sponsorship and providing pro bono support.

For more information visit www.cowbridgepride.com or follow @CowbridgePride on Instagram and Facebook.