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ILKLEY Pride & Diversity Group is inviting the LGBTQ+ community and allies to join a series of inclusive social events.
The group hopes to bring people together, build connections, and offer support throughout the year, with events already underway and a festive Christmas celebration planned.
David Shaw MBE, Chair of Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group, said: "Pride isn't just about one day or one weekend a year.
"It's about creating a community where people can come together, make friends and feel welcome all year round.
"Our regular socials are a really important part of that, whether you're looking for a friendly face, a good walk, coffee and cake or simply somewhere to meet people.
"And, of course, we're already looking forward to ending the year in suitably fabulous style at our Christmas party.
"With Bernie De Bra joining us, it's going to be one to remember."
Chair of Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group David Shaw with drag performer Bernie De Bra
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Apples & Acorns launched in June and is designed for parents, carers, and guardians of children exploring their gender or sexuality.
The next drop-in session will be held on Sunday, August 30, at 2pm at Vitello Lounge.
Isabel Ashman, who hosts the sessions and is herself a parent of a gender and sexuality-questioning child, said: "Apples & Acorns is about creating a safe, relaxed space where parents and carers can come along without feeling that they need to have all the answers.
"As a parent myself, I understand that supporting a child on an LGBTQ+ journey can sometimes bring questions, worries or simply a lot of feelings, and it can be helpful to talk to someone who understands.
"These sessions are deliberately low-key and low-pressure.
"There's no agenda and no expectation to speak if you don't want to – you can simply drop in, have a coffee and know that you're in a non-judgemental and reassuring space.
"Whether you're looking for advice, reassurance or just want to know that you're not the only parent navigating this, you're very welcome to join us."
Parents who would like to connect with Isabel before attending or outside of the session can email her at isabel@ilkleypride.co.uk, and one-to-one conversations can also be arranged.
Ilkley Pride holds social events in Vitello Lounge in Ilkley
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The group’s monthly Coffee & Cake socials take place on the third Sunday of every month at 2pm, also at Vitello Lounge.
These gatherings offer a relaxed atmosphere for people to meet, chat, and enjoy a sweet treat together.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, the Walk & Talk event is held on the fourth Saturday of each month at 2pm.
This Saturday’s walk will begin at Riverside Gardens, near the Riverside Hotel.
Ilkley Pride hosts walks
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The September Walk & Talk will start from Darwin Gardens on Saturday, September 26.
Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group emphasises that these events are designed to foster lasting connections beyond the annual Pride celebrations.
They encourage friendship, support, and a sense of belonging throughout the year.
Looking ahead, the group will close out 2026 with a Christmas Party at Everybodys in Guiseley on Saturday, December 19.
The evening will feature entertainment from drag performer Bernie De Bra.
All events are open to LGBTQ+ individuals, friends, family members, and allies, regardless of whether they have attended Pride events before.
Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group says the events are informal and inclusive, with no pressure to participate beyond what feels comfortable.
For more information and the latest updates, the public is encouraged to follow Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group on social media.