Surprise proposal marks return of Torbay Pride

Pictures 1-7: Dark Star Photo, @darkstarphotouk. Pictures 9-12: MiraclePR/miraclepr.com

Torbay Pride lit up Torre Abbey Meadows at the weekend, as the celebration of LGBTQ+ life and culture marked its third year since a decade-long hiatus — and made history with a heart-warming on-stage proposal.

Organisers described this year’s Pride as their most ambitious yet, with a packed programme of performances, parades, and community engagement. After weather challenges in 2024, the event returned with a one-day format – a collaboration with Torbay Council – while plans are already in place to bring back the multi-day festival in future years.

The highlight of the day came in the most unexpected — and romantic — fashion.

Chris Smith, chair of Torbay Pride, proposed to Will Emery, the charity’s trustee for PR and marketing, live on the main stage. The couple first met through their work with Pride and quickly fell for one another, as things “just felt so natural”.

After receiving the blessing of Will’s parents earlier in the week, Chris decided to pop the question just before the final act. Will, completely unaware of the plan, said yes — to cheers, confetti cannons and an emotional group hug with the rest of the organising team.

The moment was met with huge applause, capturing the spirit of love, inclusivity and celebration at the heart of Pride. During the event, one young attendee reportedly turned to their mum and came out, saying: “This is a safe space.” 

Chris Smith said: “This is the reason we do Pride. We want everyone to have a fantastic day and feel comfortable to be who they truly are.”

The day began with the traditional Pride March, departing from Princess Gardens at midday. Supported by Stagecoach, the colourful parade featured samba dancers, stilt walkers and frontline services including Devon and Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and the South Western Ambulance Service.

At Torre Abbey Meadows, entertainment ran from 1pm to 10pm, hosted by a line-up of seven drag performers and featuring ten live music acts. The site also included a bustling market village with over 60 stalls representing local artisans, charities, and businesses, alongside a wide selection of food vendors — from Greek gyros and Thai street food to vegan treats and barbecue favourites.

Bays Brewery provided a licensed bar, and family-friendly zones included a Punch and Judy show, free activities and inflatable fun provided by Mane Events, including a disco dome and obstacle course. Another crowd favourite was the debut of Pride’s charity dog show, organised by Animals in Distress Torbay and Westcountry. After much deliberation, judges crowned Teddy the Newfoundland “Champion of Champions”. 

A spokesperson said: “It was such a joy to see so many people come together. We loved every minute.”

Organisers thanked the English Riviera BID and the National Lottery Community Fund, as well as sponsors Steamer Quay, Well Guided Hair, and Pier Point, for helping to make the day possible.

Claire Booth, director of people at Rowcroft Hospice, said: “Taking part in Torbay Pride fits perfectly with our values and shows the hospice’s support for the LGBTQ+ community and commitment to inclusivity.”

Victoria Bartlett, director of patient care at Rowcroft, said: “We’re all about celebrating diversity and making sure everyone feels valued, supported, and free to be themselves.”

Lorraine Arnold, owner of Pier Point Bar & Restaurant, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to be a Platinum Sponsor for Torbay Pride and to support such a brilliantly well-run event on Saturday. It was a fantastic day full of colour, joy, and community spirit, and we were especially proud to sponsor the headline act, 5,6,7,8 – The Steps Experience.

“This was the first time Torbay Pride has taken place in June, and it worked incredibly well – the atmosphere was electric. Huge congratulations to the organisers for putting on another outstanding celebration. At Pier Point, we got fully involved with themed cocktails, special offers, and vibrant decorations — it was wonderful to see so many people enjoying themselves by the sea.”

Torbay Pride is run by a small, volunteer-led team. While this year’s event saw strong attendance and growing community support, organisers say funding remains a challenge. Only 11 per cent of running costs were covered by sponsorship this year — down from 17 per cent in 2023.

They are urging local businesses and community groups to help sustain the event, even through small acts like displaying inclusive signage, offering support in kind, or simply joining the parade.

A spokesperson added: “There are a lot of queer people in Torbay, of all ages and backgrounds – but there are next to no spaces for LGBTQ+ people to be with their community. Pride is helping to change that.”

More information and ways to support the event can be found at www.torbaypride.co.uk.