Millport set to make history with first-ever Pride march this weekend.

Largs and Millport News

"This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate diversity, stand against LGBTQ+ discrimination and bring people together for a family friendly event."

MILLPORT is set to make history this weekend as the Isle of Cumbrae hosts its first-ever Pride march.

The inaugural Millport Pride will take place on Saturday, September 12, bringing together residents, visitors and supporters for a day of celebration, inclusivity and community spirit.

The march will set off from Kames Bay at 12.30pm and make its way to the pier, where a range of activities will continue throughout the day. Organisers have planned community stalls in the Garrison, a youth zone, family area, quiet space and entertainment at local pubs, creating what they hope will be a welcoming event for all ages.

The event follows successful Pride celebrations on neighbouring Arran in May and Bute in August, and is seen as another milestone for LGBTQ+ visibility across Scotland’s island communities.

Millport Pride chair Salena Bagley MBE said the support shown by the island had been overwhelming.

She said: “As a Millport resident, I’m really proud of the support Millport Pride has received from our community, local businesses, organisations, North Ayrshire Council and elected representatives.

“Visibility matters, and this is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate diversity, stand against LGBTQ+ discrimination and bring people together for a fun, inclusive, family-friendly event.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming friends old and new to Cumbrae for a fantastic weekend of pride, celebration and community.”

Millport Pride treasurer Pam Currie said the event was particularly important for people living in rural and island communities.

She said: “As a queer person living in Millport, it’s really important that we celebrate Pride and celebrate the inclusivity and diversity of our community here in Millport, rather than travelling to the mainland and travelling to a city to do so.

“We know that progress on LGBT+ inclusion is rolling backwards. We’re facing an increase in hate speech, particularly online, and the world no longer feels particularly safe for many LGBTQ+ people.

“This is especially the case for young people who may be less able to travel to Glasgow or beyond to access events and community. We need to build this right here, where we live.

“Everyone is welcome at Millport Pride. Let’s make it a great, colourful day for the island.”

The event has also received backing from Ross Greer MSP, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, who has lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament recognising the work of organisers.

He said: “I can’t wait for Millport’s first Pride event, and I’m really pleased to be celebrating the event organisers with a motion in the Scottish Parliament.

“Sadly, attacks and abuse against LGBTQ+ people are on the rise again. That’s why Pride events are so important, to celebrate the diversity of our community and to push back against discrimination and hate.

“I’m really grateful to the team behind Millport Pride for all the work they have done to pull this event together and I can’t wait to see how successful it will be.”

North Ayrshire Council will also play a role in the celebrations.

A council spokesperson said: “Our Youth Work team will be supporting young people to attend the parade, provide stalls and participate in various activities and events during what is shaping up to be a fun day.”

Adding to the weekend’s festivities, Sleeping Warrior Productions has announced that its acclaimed musical tribute show Crocodile Rock will return to Millport Town Hall on Sunday, September 13 at 6pm.

The performance will mark the final show of the production’s successful run, which began in Millport in July before transferring to regular performances at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Organisers say they hope the first Millport Pride will become a lasting annual event, celebrating diversity while showcasing the island’s welcoming community to visitors from across Scotland and beyond.