News / Awards
Bristol Pride Gala celebrates the best of LGBT+
Bristol charities, support groups, and businesses came together with the Pride team, for the annual Bristol Pride Gala Ball.
This special fundraising event for Bristol Pride is now in its third year and took place in the Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel.
It was a night to celebrate and recognise the great work being done by individuals, charities and businesses for their contribution to LGBT+ life in Bristol and the Pride Festival held this July 6-8.
Head of Inclusion and Diversity for Aviva, Helen Higgs, accepted the company’s award for Best Employer
Pride Volunteer Eriol Fox won an award for their work in creating outstanding décor for the festival, as well as their leadership and mentoring skills.
Paul Stoodley, long-time owner and of the Queenshilling, won a special award to recognise his Outstanding Contribution to the community. The Queenshilling supports varied nights for the diverse community across the LGBT+ spectrum.
Bristol based band Dr Meaker won Best Act from the 2017 festival.
Pride Day Awards included Best EXPO Stall won by the National Trust, while Best Community Stall went to Amnesty Bristol. The M Shed, which hosts many events as part of LGBT History Month, was awarded Best LGBT+ Friendly Visitor Attraction. The Positive Impact Award went to BCFM which produces ShoutOut Radio.
The Bristollettes wowed with their dance routine
Nominated by the members of the public, a total of 10 awards were handed out on the night by Bristol’s deputy mayor Asher Craig; CEO of Bristol Pride, Daryn Carter; and former Bristol Lord Mayor, Alastair Watson.
The Masquerade themed Gala Ball guests arrived in an exciting array of masks for the red carpet reception, ahead of the first performance from Circomedia graduate, and hoop artist, Scarlett Smith, who performed a multi-hoop routine. The night also included the dance group the Bristolettes.
A full list of all the nominations and winners can be seen at www.bristolpride.co.uk/gala.
Bristol Pride were also pleased to confirm their previously announced dates for the festival which will be held from the July 6-15 with the main festival taking place on Saturday, July 14.
Photos from Dee Robertson Photography
Read more: Play a part in Talking LGBT+ Bristol
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
