Torbay Pride is set for a comeback.

Torbay Pride is poised for a return after a long absence.

The brainchild of Chris Smith, a small committee of trustees has now formed Torbay Pride as a registered charity and held several public meetings.

It has also been fund-raising and seeking sponsors and grants to finance a free family-friendly day of entertainment event planned for Saturday, September 2, at Torre Abbey Meadows which is expected to cost in the region of 30,000 to stage.

Chris reckons they are half way there but added: "W are waiting to hear from various sponsors and the Lottery funding. We would like to encourage any individuals r business who may be interested in sponsorship to please get in touch.

"It is so important we get this right and make Torbay Pride happen after such a long absence.

"Torbay has had terrible press recently for being deprived and this is what Torbay Pride wants to be all about. Creating safe inclusive spaces for the LGQBTIA+ Community is about celebrating our differences on all levels, respecting that, and having an enjoyable day that benefits the general public throughout Torbay and businesses as well.The majority of the acts are based in Torbay. The catering and craft market vendors are all within a 15-mile radius of Torbay, as are our stage and production company who have worked on the likes of Paignton Festival and Teignmouth Air Show.

We have a fantastic line-up of acts."

Chris said they were also very proud to have recently supported bringing drag acts to Torbay - Felicia Bluebell and Madame Rouge - who both competed in Drag Idol UK Plymouth heats with Felicia going on to win a place directly into the final Plymouth heats on Sunday, May 21.

Both acts can be seen regularly at Torbay Pride's monthly Drag bingo which is held on the first Sunday of every month and sponsored and held at Appleby's at Shedden Hill in Torquay.

Chris said: "As well as the monthly bingo we have numerous fundraising events coming up, including a Murder Mystery dinner which will be held at Hampton by Hilton Hotel on The Terrace in Torquay on Saturday May 27.

"It includes a three-course meal, professionally played-out murder mystery by The Moonstone Theatre Company with 1930s fancy dress optional but with a prize for the best dressed. The case of the murdered manager is £45 a ticket booked directly through the Pride website ww.torbaypride.co.uk or through Eventbrite  Anyone who would like to volunteer on the day or beforehand can sign up directly on the website."

He added: "We hold regular monthly public meetings and will soon be running some drop-in sessions for information at The Greek Retreat.

"If you would like to volunteer, find out more or sponsor us then feel free to drop us an email or pop along to a drop in session or meeting. Torbay Pride is growing thanks to the generous donations, support, and involvement of people in Torbay. With their help we can put Torbay on the map as one of the Prides in the UK that everyone wants to visit."