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Welcome to our very popular :- THE DORSET LGBT+ COMMUNITY NEWS for 2025 If it's LGBT+ news in the South, Central, North or West Dorset area we hope to have it here for you. |
"Your website is the LGBT+ Bible locally" Jonai Dorset NHS
Its unique -
We are the only Dorset LGBT website with all the up to date community news & events you need!
We are the only Dorset LGBT website with all the up to date community news & events you need!
Below we have all your DORSET LGBT+ COMMUNITY NEWS during 2025!
Brilliant that so much is going on for our Dorset LGBT+ Community, and we share it all with YOU!
If you have some LGBT+ news to share, please do let us all know!
email [email protected]
Last year 2024, we reported on over 110 Dorset LGBT+ Community news stories.
You can access news from past years from the top pull down menu (on your laptop /PC)
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Brilliant that so much is going on for our Dorset LGBT+ Community, and we share it all with YOU!
If you have some LGBT+ news to share, please do let us all know!
email [email protected]
Last year 2024, we reported on over 110 Dorset LGBT+ Community news stories.
You can access news from past years from the top pull down menu (on your laptop /PC)
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Interested in Dorset LGBT+ Community Events? Wow!
Over May, June & July 2025 we listed a WHOPPING 240+ local Dorset LGBT+ Community events on our events page!
Over 110 events listed over October & November!
See - The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
Dorset has a very active LGBT+ Community with lots of events! Let's celebrate, join in and enjoy!
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Over May, June & July 2025 we listed a WHOPPING 240+ local Dorset LGBT+ Community events on our events page!
Over 110 events listed over October & November!
See - The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
Dorset has a very active LGBT+ Community with lots of events! Let's celebrate, join in and enjoy!
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Here are your 2025 headlines so far ...
Scroll down this page (on your laptop /pc best rather than a small phone screen) to read all these stories .....
Dorset is blessed with a very active LGBT+ Community, we report all the news here for you!
(sorry our website does not give you "click" to go straight to the news story you wish to read. So scroll on down!)
Scroll down this page (on your laptop /pc best rather than a small phone screen) to read all these stories .....
Dorset is blessed with a very active LGBT+ Community, we report all the news here for you!
(sorry our website does not give you "click" to go straight to the news story you wish to read. So scroll on down!)
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* "Diversity is accepted, celebrated and part of our town"
- Sylvia Townsend Warner Statue Unveiling * Shock and surprise, as Gents forced to use "female space" - shock - No problem! * Weymouth Christmas Tree Festival - our WGG tree by our three wise men! * Space Youth Project - Christmas appeal * The Sylvia Townsend Warner Statue Unveiling - Sunday, 14th December at 1 pm Dorchester * No more AIR? Breaking News! - AIR saved! - Station that hosted LGBT+ show closes. * Seasonal shopping suggestions - a wander around Weymouth supportive shops * Councillor accused of bringing disrepute to Portland Town Council - Over negative LGBT remarks * The Only Gay In The Village? - Exeter University * Trans Day of Remembrance - TDoR Two events in Dorchester Nov 20th * LGBT memorial - Portland Councillor makes "homophobic" post - This is a developing breaking news story, and we are sure more will follow soon. Which we hope to add below. * Sandi Toksvig - Dorset TV show * This is Me donate to Space * Age Friendly Dorset - Weymouth Gay Group evening - Report from the event, plus Survey info. * Hate Crime in Dorset - Transgender crimes down (?), religious crimes up * Transgeder Cancer Care - a Community Research Project * Joint Statement: LGBT+ Sector stands up against racism - Consortium news * Are our LGBT+ Rights under threat? - Dorset LGBT+ community express concerns * LGBTQ poets contribute to Trail across Weymouth and Portland - 30 QR codes for you to find and scan! * LGBT+ and growing older in Dorset? - UK Network of Age-friendly Communities We will be running a special evening about this on 13th October with a representative from Dorset Council to listen to your suggestions and life stories. 6.30pm The Swan see below * Volunteers needed - Space Youth Project - Could you support young LGBT+ people? * Section 28 and Me - Tom Marshman asked queer communities: Whats your Section 28 story? Royal Manor Theatre Portland. * Sylvia Townsend Warner statue Dorchester - 2K to go * Gay Meet up activity group for Weymouth area? - does that interest you? * Nautico Man funds Space! * Local author Dorchester Library talk - hidden Lesbian homosexuality during WWII * Farewell Neil - Weymouth Gay Group - Missing you! * Community Pride blasts Dorset Police - "The police should not be at any pride event" * Equity, Diversity & Inclusion in the Arts Training - Dorchester Arts * Bournemouth Pride - Jonai reports - Our Jonai sent us this report of the gay day! * Farewell Juliet - Weymouth LGBT+ Community say goodbye * The TWO Prides of Bournemouth! - Excitement mounts ahead of a double Bmth Pride weekend. * Sherborne and Bournemouth Prides - stage line ups * Dorchester Mayor praises Pride events - "I know firsthand how important it is to feel safe and welcome in the place that you live." * Unique Library helping Portland LGBTQ+ community - Dorset Echo report * Wag - a - wonderful Pride! - Meals Out at Dorchester Wagamama Pop Up Pride * Dorchester Library LGBT+ display * Our Groups helplines poster gets coverage in Dorset Echo! - LGBT+ campaign launched in GP surgeries across Dorset * Chesil Youth Pride 2025 - report part one - Weymouth College * Chesil Youth Pride 2025 - report part two - The Parade * Battery set to host torchlit photo exhibition - with illumination from Portland LGBT+ side! * Pride in Weymouth Shop windows - do you know any more? * Dorchester Pop Up Pride - Pride Picnic in the Park, report & pics * Chesil Youth Pride Sat 28th - up dates - Parade along Weymouths Esplanade! * Record number of events - for Pride month! * Our Helplines poster - gets national and local support * Growing up Gay in Bridport - Musician speeks out & sings at Arts Center * The London Boys are back! - Chesil Rocks * Jurassic Pride:- - Queer Socials & Gender Neutral Loos Map! |
* Poetry evening
- launches Pop Up Pride in Dorchester * Bridport Bookshop - LGBT+ window display * LGBTQ+ Active Bournemouth * Poole Pride 2025 - brill event! * Pub Pride in Dorset 2025 - goes flat! * Rainbows on Weymouth Esplanade! - Beach Office, Jubilee Clock & Parade! * New LGBT+ Helplines poster for Pride month - outreach with Dorset NHS * Pop Up Pride Dorchester - details released - lots of events all month! * Marvellous Mel in Mayoress role! - Dorchester embraces diversity & supports SYP * NEW! In Bridport Jurassic Pride - Monthly Queer Social * Convenient posters! Weymouth sea front - promoting LGBT+ & Pride * Who is Claude Cahun? - Interactive Workshops Dorchester Corn Exchange. * Tiny Art gallery's new LGBTQ+ exhibition - Portland * Event aims to "normalise trans lives" - Bournemouth University * Queer in the Countryside - Lots of events at Bridport Arts - Our Stories: Queer in the Countryside LGBTQIA+ artists, performers & workshops * Wings of Pride - Bridport Arts - New exhibition at Bridport Arts 7- 31 May * Trans Rights Are Human Rights! - Weymouth Demo 10th May * Exeter Pride / Out There Exeter - Standing Strong in Challenging Times * Sherborne Pride Returns for a Second Year - ‘Love STILL Lives Here’ * Weekend of Dorset Trans Solidarity Protests - May 10/11th Weymouth & Bournemouth support Trans Solidarity * Pub Pride in Dorset 2025 - only one Dorset venue listed! * Poole Pride 2025 - event info. updated 26/ 04/2025 * Poole Pride 2025 - A Meditation on Queer Art Song * Sylvia Townsend Warner Statue approved - Pioneer for gay rights honoured Dorchester statue * Transgender group suffers double set back - venue & website change * Pop Up Pride - Dorchester! - with a variety of events including a Pride Picnic * Turn the volume up! - Portlands new LGBT+ Library on the radio! * Queer in the Countryside - Coming soon to Bridport * New Portland & Weymouth Choir coming soon! - LGBT+ and fully inclusive * Beer Mats and Banners - getting ready for a summer of Prides! * Reform UK party anti Trans Youth story - "lack of knowledge & vitriol" - says Space * Beyond Reflections:- - Trans+ Research Conference at Bournemouth University * London Gay Mens Chorus at Chesil Rocks 21st June - Saturday Night Diva! * Poole Pride - June 7th 2025 * Growing campaign to boycott BourneFree - Bournemouth Community Pride * Dorset Mind steps back from X - Their LGBT groups continue * Little Tiny LGBTQIA+ Library Launches at B-side Portland - New Wonderful Resource for Portland & Weymouth! * History Month Displays - Atrium surgery Dorch & Weymouth College * Shock as Dorset NHS LGBT lead resigns * Valentines - Portland Hotel offers LGBT+ safe place - Hotel Aqua Castletown* Dorset NHS - LGBT+ History Month * Dorset NHS - LGBT+ History Month - The University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust * Dorset Museum LGBT+ History Month - life of gay couple in Corfe Castle * Weymouth Library hosting LGBT+ History Month event - updated, photos & more * Weymouth Gay Women - meet up info & name change * Queer In The Countryside - Arts in Dorset * Teenage boy attacked in Weymouth in town centre hate crime - our local community reacts * Poole Pride 2025 * Dorset LGBT+ Community Events 2025 * Dorchesters "This is Me" Transgender Group - New Poole Pub meet ups * Town Clock to go “rainbow”! * More LGBT+ groups eXit X! * Bibby legacy: Portland LGBTQIA+ Group! * LGBT+ Library for Weymouth & Portland * Weymouth Gay Group welcomes in New Year! * Your key LGBT+ not to miss Dorset Events in 2025! |
"Diversity is accepted, celebrated and part of our town"
- Sylvia Townsend Warner Statue Unveiling
(posted here 15/12/2025)
The Dorset Echo reported "HUNDREDS of people gathered to witness a moment of history in Dorchester as the town's first non-royal female statue was unveiled."
"Years of hard worked came to fruition on Saturday afternoon as a statue of the remarkable writer, poet, novelist and LBGTQ+ pioneer Sylvia Townsend Warner was revealed to an onlooking crowd on South Street by bestselling author Tracey Chevalier. At the unveiling, trustee and founder of Visible Women UK, Anya Pearson, said: "I am really emotional actually. I think this one was harder won because she wasn't as recognised as Mary Anning because she was so forgotten. "Sylvia Townsend Warner was completely eradicated, primarily because she was a queer woman."
Great quote from Mel (Diversity Mel) mayoress in Echo - "The theme of our mayoral year has been welcoming and inclusive town and felt the statue was voted for by local people shows people really want a queer woman statue in the town and that says something about how diversity is accepted and celebrated and part of our town."
Location:- Outside Gould's department store South Street Dorchester.
See the links below for full reports of the day, and scroll down to our past news reports about this project.
Links:-
Dorset Echo - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25696917.sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-unveiled-dorchester/
BBC - www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz7nnldp7qeo
BBC South Today - a few screen shots below as they covered this news story. (Lunchtime news 15/12/2025)
- Sylvia Townsend Warner Statue Unveiling
(posted here 15/12/2025)
The Dorset Echo reported "HUNDREDS of people gathered to witness a moment of history in Dorchester as the town's first non-royal female statue was unveiled."
"Years of hard worked came to fruition on Saturday afternoon as a statue of the remarkable writer, poet, novelist and LBGTQ+ pioneer Sylvia Townsend Warner was revealed to an onlooking crowd on South Street by bestselling author Tracey Chevalier. At the unveiling, trustee and founder of Visible Women UK, Anya Pearson, said: "I am really emotional actually. I think this one was harder won because she wasn't as recognised as Mary Anning because she was so forgotten. "Sylvia Townsend Warner was completely eradicated, primarily because she was a queer woman."
Great quote from Mel (Diversity Mel) mayoress in Echo - "The theme of our mayoral year has been welcoming and inclusive town and felt the statue was voted for by local people shows people really want a queer woman statue in the town and that says something about how diversity is accepted and celebrated and part of our town."
Location:- Outside Gould's department store South Street Dorchester.
See the links below for full reports of the day, and scroll down to our past news reports about this project.
Links:-
Dorset Echo - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25696917.sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-unveiled-dorchester/
BBC - www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz7nnldp7qeo
BBC South Today - a few screen shots below as they covered this news story. (Lunchtime news 15/12/2025)
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Shock and surprise, as Gents forced to use "female space" - shock - No problem! (posted here 08/12/2025) For the first time that we know about, gentlemen have been forced to use a "female space" in The Swan Wetherspoons Weymouth. One of our guys posted on social media ... Oh! SWAN WEYMOUTH. Well first time (in a pub) that I have used a "female space". And what was the problem? NONE for me or those there. Perhaps more pubs and public venues need multi use facilities. Might help to change attitudes? This was only temporary while the Swan sort it, but it does kinda illustrate how all the transgender bathroom fuss is so silly! We all have private bathrooms at home, a lot of public transport does too (Trains / planes), so what is the issue? Multi sex / use loos? So, what is your view? Something to chat about around our pub tables! Dorset Eye covered this story - see - https://dorseteye.com/what-a-wetherspoons-pub-in-dorset-taught-us-about-the-trans-toilet-debate/ |
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Weymouth Christmas Tree Festival (posted here 06/12/2025)
Christmas Tree Festival Sat 6th Dec - Sun 14th Holy Trinity Church Weymouth DT4 8TJ Loads of different Christmas Trees from a vast variety of local community groups. Well worth a visit. See if you can spot our Weymouth Gay Group Tree! (should be easy!) Huge thanks to Tony, Shaun & Antony in our group with this. You can join the "three wise men" and all of us at our pub group. Swan Mondays. |
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Space Youth Project
- Christmas appeal (posted here 04/12/2025) Christmas can be a lonely time for people, especially LGBT+ young people as many have not come out to families for fear of rejection and for some that have come out, those families have not been accepting. Space Youth Project wants to ensure all Dorset LGBT+ young people have a safe place where they can be themselves and get support, and a place families can get support to help them accept and support their child, but we need your help to do this. Please donate what you can today by accessing our website and clicking on the donate button so we can continue the vital work we do. Merry Christmas from all of us at Space Youth Project! Donate / more info see :- https://www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk/support-us Note - Weymouth Gay Group list Space Youth Project events on The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html |
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The Sylvia Townsend Warner Statue Unveiling (posted here 01/12/2025)
Sunday, 14th December at 1 pm Dorchester
Visible Women UK say:-
Join us for a historic moment in the heart of Dorchester!
Visible Women UK proudly invites you to the unveiling of the new statue of Sylvia Townsend Warner on Sunday, 14th December at 1 pm sharp.
The ceremony will take place outside Goulds Fashion Store at what3words: ///ratio.rugs.clauses
We are honoured that the statue will be unveiled by our patron, internationally best-selling author Tracy Chevalier.
Agenda for the event ...
13:00 - 13:10 Opening Welcome from Anya Pearson, Trustee of Visible Women UK
13:10 - 13:20 Speech by Mel Lane Mayoress of Dorchester on behalf of the Major Andy Canning
13:20 - 13:30 Molly Dunne -The Bard of Caer Dur & her poem for Sylvia
13:30 - 13:40 Sarah Jane Pattison - The Sylvia Townsend Warner Society
13:40 - 13:50 Alex Jones - Thomas Hardy School
13:50 - 14:00 Mark Chutter - Thomas Hardy Society
14:00 - 14:10 Denise Dutton - Scuptor & Artist. Closing Speech & Unveiling - Internationl best selling author Tracy Chevalier
More info -
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-unveiling-tickets-1976337166667?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios
Who is Sylvia Townsend Warner ?
Extract from Wickipedia
In the 1970s, Warner became known as a significant writer of feminist or lesbian sentiment,[20] and her novels were among the earlier ones to be revived by Virago Press.[24] Selected letters of Warner and Valentine Ackland have been published twice: Wendy Mulford edited a collection titled This Narrow Place in 1988, and ten years later Susanna Pinney published another selection, I’ll Stand by You.
The Sylvia Townsend Warner Society was founded in Dorchester in January 2000 and publishes The Journal of the Sylvia Townsend Warner Society annually with UCL Press.[24]
In 2024 it was announced that Warner had been chosen to be the subject of a new statue in Dorchester. She was selected by a public vote carried by the charity Visible Women UK, for greater representation of women in public art. The design for the work by sculptor Denise Dutton shows Townsend Warner seated on a bench with one of her cats.
More here - en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sylvia_Townsend_Warner
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No more AIR (posted here 9 am 27/11/2025 updated 4 pm 27/11/2025)
Station that hosted LGBT+ show closes.
Breaking News! - AIR saved! (See end of story)
Weymouth & Portland AIR Community Radio station is to close, highlighting financial issues.
The Radio Station – “All Inclusive Radio” - AIR had a regular weekly LGBT+ radio show for a couple of years with our friend Charity presenting. She would read out The Dorset LGBT+ Events diary listings from the Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) website, helping to promote many local LGBT+ events. Mixed in with record requests from listeners, the show quickly became very popular. It was able through the magic of radio, to reach people in the community who may not have been aware just how active and supportive the local LGBT+ Community is. The show ended a few years ago.
Station that hosted LGBT+ show closes.
Breaking News! - AIR saved! (See end of story)
Weymouth & Portland AIR Community Radio station is to close, highlighting financial issues.
The Radio Station – “All Inclusive Radio” - AIR had a regular weekly LGBT+ radio show for a couple of years with our friend Charity presenting. She would read out The Dorset LGBT+ Events diary listings from the Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) website, helping to promote many local LGBT+ events. Mixed in with record requests from listeners, the show quickly became very popular. It was able through the magic of radio, to reach people in the community who may not have been aware just how active and supportive the local LGBT+ Community is. The show ended a few years ago.
It came about when WGG asked station management do they include the LGBT community? They then offered us a two-hour show! WGG gathered representatives of Dorsets LGBT+ community (including Space Youth Project) together with a meeting with AIR, and the show was born.
The face of radio, particularly local radio has changed a lot in recent years, while we are unaware of any local LGBT+ shows, the remaining stations do occasionally cover local LGBT news.
Keep 106. Dorchester Community Radio
Dorset Coast Radio - Community Station
BBC Radio Solent – Steve Harris Breakfast in Dorset (Has covered some Pride events)
Out with Kathy Caton – Wednesdays 9-10pm Networked across BBC local radio in Southern England.
There are also several online / DAB LGBT+ / Gay Radio stations.
More about AIR radio here - https://dorseteye.com/air-radio-weymouth-announces-it-will-shut-down-this-month/
Breaking News! UPDATE! - 27/11/2025 - AIR SAVED!
Radio Industry media - Radio Today are reporting that AIR has been saved, with the founder coming back as Managing Director and Station Manager. See - https://radiotoday.co.uk/2025/11/community-radio-station-air-107-2-saved-from-closure/
We wonder if they would like more local LGBT+ Community News in the future? Perhaps even a LGBT+ show!
The face of radio, particularly local radio has changed a lot in recent years, while we are unaware of any local LGBT+ shows, the remaining stations do occasionally cover local LGBT news.
Keep 106. Dorchester Community Radio
Dorset Coast Radio - Community Station
BBC Radio Solent – Steve Harris Breakfast in Dorset (Has covered some Pride events)
Out with Kathy Caton – Wednesdays 9-10pm Networked across BBC local radio in Southern England.
There are also several online / DAB LGBT+ / Gay Radio stations.
More about AIR radio here - https://dorseteye.com/air-radio-weymouth-announces-it-will-shut-down-this-month/
Breaking News! UPDATE! - 27/11/2025 - AIR SAVED!
Radio Industry media - Radio Today are reporting that AIR has been saved, with the founder coming back as Managing Director and Station Manager. See - https://radiotoday.co.uk/2025/11/community-radio-station-air-107-2-saved-from-closure/
We wonder if they would like more local LGBT+ Community News in the future? Perhaps even a LGBT+ show!
Seasonal shopping suggestions
(posted first on previous years news pages, updated here 22/11/2025)
With the festive season upon us we like to highlight a few local shopping suggestions. Supporting local businesses with a LGBT+ connection with our Pink Pounds! You can see contact details for all the shops listed at the end of this article. Including websites if you can't get along to some of these shops.
(posted first on previous years news pages, updated here 22/11/2025)
With the festive season upon us we like to highlight a few local shopping suggestions. Supporting local businesses with a LGBT+ connection with our Pink Pounds! You can see contact details for all the shops listed at the end of this article. Including websites if you can't get along to some of these shops.
So, join us here as we take a festive stroll around a number of Weymouth shops ......
We start off with the wonderful friendly ladies at The Happy Crab Gallery in Gloucester street (opposite Park Street car park).
We start off with the wonderful friendly ladies at The Happy Crab Gallery in Gloucester street (opposite Park Street car park).
The Happy Crab Gallery
This is one of Weymouths hidden art / LGBT+ gems!
If you have not found it, we highly recommed that you do so!
They are just opposite the Park Street car park at 20a Gloucester Street.
Ama & Lea have a great range of sculpture, prints, pots, cards and original artwork.
Some of which is especially produced with LGBT+ people in mind.
A few photos below ...
This is one of Weymouths hidden art / LGBT+ gems!
If you have not found it, we highly recommed that you do so!
They are just opposite the Park Street car park at 20a Gloucester Street.
Ama & Lea have a great range of sculpture, prints, pots, cards and original artwork.
Some of which is especially produced with LGBT+ people in mind.
A few photos below ...
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Weymouth Post Office
Our next stop - which hardly needs any introduction is Weymouth Post Office in St Thomas Street.
Well known for its range of rainbow gifts and an outstanding range of pin badges, including many LGBT+ ones.
So while you get your Christmas stamps, drop your parcels off, check it all out. Oh, and extra points if you see our Weymouth Gay Group posters, beer mats and leaflets there!
Our next stop - which hardly needs any introduction is Weymouth Post Office in St Thomas Street.
Well known for its range of rainbow gifts and an outstanding range of pin badges, including many LGBT+ ones.
So while you get your Christmas stamps, drop your parcels off, check it all out. Oh, and extra points if you see our Weymouth Gay Group posters, beer mats and leaflets there!
Post office - A First Class place to shop!
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HUGE Thanks to Weymouth Post office for displaying our posters, leaflets, and having our beer mats throughout the year.
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So Sweet.
Walking round into St Marys Street, we find So Sweet.
We love their Gay Chocolate!
Perhaps a very fun stocking filler for family or a friend?
Walking round into St Marys Street, we find So Sweet.
We love their Gay Chocolate!
Perhaps a very fun stocking filler for family or a friend?
And you thought Weymouth only had one!
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The Weymouth Sweet Shop
Keeping it sweet a bit further along St Marys Street, we popped into The Weymouth Sweet Shop. They have these great mugs, ideal for your home coffee table, or office mates!
Keeping it sweet a bit further along St Marys Street, we popped into The Weymouth Sweet Shop. They have these great mugs, ideal for your home coffee table, or office mates!
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Card Factory
Finding LGBT+ themed Christmas cards used to be difficult years ago, but not now!
Weymouth's Card Factory shop in St Marys street has a selection including transgender ones too!
We also loved how they have cards with braille, something we had not seen before for blind or visually impaired people.
Finding LGBT+ themed Christmas cards used to be difficult years ago, but not now!
Weymouth's Card Factory shop in St Marys street has a selection including transgender ones too!
We also loved how they have cards with braille, something we had not seen before for blind or visually impaired people.
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Baan 57
Our festive stroll then took us down the very colourful St Alban Street, with its small shops and flags.
Our friends Barry & Dan in Baan 57 always have a super range of alternative gifts, many with an Asian origin.
"A whole word of calm" awaits you with Equal Earth, crystails, gifts, crafts, Incense, candles & Essential Oils.
Oh, and an Elephant or two!
Our festive stroll then took us down the very colourful St Alban Street, with its small shops and flags.
Our friends Barry & Dan in Baan 57 always have a super range of alternative gifts, many with an Asian origin.
"A whole word of calm" awaits you with Equal Earth, crystails, gifts, crafts, Incense, candles & Essential Oils.
Oh, and an Elephant or two!
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stitch n b*tch
By now on your trip around town you may be in need of refreshments and a welcoming place to sit and recover with all your shopping bags! stitch n b*tch - just yards away from Baan 57 also in St Alan Street, is ideal!
It's a craft and coffee shop where you can make a gift for a friend. So if you have not found something for friends / family on your trip around town, you can make it here! Crochet & knitting, Arts & crafts, Sewing, Jewellery making and a delicious drink in a LGBT+ friendly environment.
By now on your trip around town you may be in need of refreshments and a welcoming place to sit and recover with all your shopping bags! stitch n b*tch - just yards away from Baan 57 also in St Alan Street, is ideal!
It's a craft and coffee shop where you can make a gift for a friend. So if you have not found something for friends / family on your trip around town, you can make it here! Crochet & knitting, Arts & crafts, Sewing, Jewellery making and a delicious drink in a LGBT+ friendly environment.
Below we have listed the contact info for all the above shops on our walk around Weymouth.
Please do let them know you saw them featured here! - thanks.
Please do let them know you saw them featured here! - thanks.
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The Happy Crab Gallery
20a Gloucester Street Weymouth DT4 7AW https://www.leaphillips-pottery.co.uk Weymouth Post office 87 St Thomas Street Weymouth DT4 8EN 01305 789663 So Sweet. 104 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8NY |
The Weymouth Sweet Shop
24 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8PN Card Factory 76 St Mary St, Road, Weymouth DT4 8PJ Phone: 01305 789392 |
Baan 57
A Whole World Of Calm 7 - 8 St Alban Street Weymouth DT4 8BZ 01305 594739 https://www.Baan57.co.uk |
stitch n b*tch
craft and coffee shop 2 St Alban Street Weymouth DT4 8BZ @thestitchnbitchcafe |
Hope you have enjoyed our festive walk around Weymouth shops, and find our suggestions helpful.
A few more suggestions are listed below. |f you know any thing we are missing in Dorset, please do let us know.
A few more suggestions are listed below. |f you know any thing we are missing in Dorset, please do let us know.
Shire Hall
If you are in Dorchester or visiting?
We suggest you should check out the Shire Hall gift shop.
They have a great range of rainbow / LGBT+ goodies in there.
Shire Hall Museum High West Street Dorchester Dorset DT1 1UY Tel: 01305 261849 https://shirehalldorset.org/
If you are in Dorchester or visiting?
We suggest you should check out the Shire Hall gift shop.
They have a great range of rainbow / LGBT+ goodies in there.
Shire Hall Museum High West Street Dorchester Dorset DT1 1UY Tel: 01305 261849 https://shirehalldorset.org/
The Closet
Looking for a LGBT+ gift a little different? How about a night out in Weymouths The Closet "Gay" Bar!
Its the top place to party in town with a range of events on over Christmas & New Year.
The Closet Bar 38a Maiden St, Weymouth DT4 8BA Website https://closetweymouth.co.uk/
FESTIVE DAY RELEASE — OVER 30s CHRISTMAS SPECIAL! This one’s for the grown-ups who still know how to party!
Join us Saturday 13th December, 2PM–7PM for the ultimate daytime bash — no messy late nights, just pure festive fun!
DJ Steve Mullins bringing the daytime disco vibes Drag Performer Rougie serving sass, sparkle & Christmas chaos
2 venues of festive mayhem Entry just £6 — it’s the perfect Christmas warm-up!
The Closet Bar & Club, 23 St Edmund Street, Weymouth Grab your tickets now: bit.ly/DayReleaseCloset
Looking for a LGBT+ gift a little different? How about a night out in Weymouths The Closet "Gay" Bar!
Its the top place to party in town with a range of events on over Christmas & New Year.
The Closet Bar 38a Maiden St, Weymouth DT4 8BA Website https://closetweymouth.co.uk/
FESTIVE DAY RELEASE — OVER 30s CHRISTMAS SPECIAL! This one’s for the grown-ups who still know how to party!
Join us Saturday 13th December, 2PM–7PM for the ultimate daytime bash — no messy late nights, just pure festive fun!
DJ Steve Mullins bringing the daytime disco vibes Drag Performer Rougie serving sass, sparkle & Christmas chaos
2 venues of festive mayhem Entry just £6 — it’s the perfect Christmas warm-up!
The Closet Bar & Club, 23 St Edmund Street, Weymouth Grab your tickets now: bit.ly/DayReleaseCloset
The Gay Outdoor Club GOC
A gift subscription to a LGBT+ organisation / club is another option. Groups like The Gay Outdoor Club GOC (lots of Dorset walks for all LGBT+ people). There are many specialist focused groups from Bird watching, to Classic cars and bikes, offering gift membership. Something that will last the year!
Check out our Weymouth Gay Group page here with local, regional, and some national groups. - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
A gift subscription to a LGBT+ organisation / club is another option. Groups like The Gay Outdoor Club GOC (lots of Dorset walks for all LGBT+ people). There are many specialist focused groups from Bird watching, to Classic cars and bikes, offering gift membership. Something that will last the year!
Check out our Weymouth Gay Group page here with local, regional, and some national groups. - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
Happy Christmas shopping ... !
Councillor accused of bringing disrepute to Portland Town Council.
- Over negative LGBT remarks. (posted here 21/11/25)
Below is a report about The Portland Town Council meeting on Wednesday 19th Nov (by someone who attended), regarding a councillor and his negative comments about our LGBT+ Community.
"The chair (Councillor Sue Cocking) and Councillor Horton arrived at the meeting in the same car, implying a degree of mutual friendship/co-operation.
Chaplin (to the Council) Angie McLachlan read a prayer then gave her letter of resignation and left immediately afterwards. This was not acknowledged in any way by the Chair Sue Cocking.
Unusually the Chair gave very strict guidelines regarding what could and could not be discussed in the democratic half an hour. Meaning no mention of Councillor Horton's online behaviour could be discussed. Not very democratic at all.
A local resident challenged this and directly asked Portland Town Councillors how they felt about Councillor Scott Horton using phrases like "soppy fairies" and "femme fresh camp Nancy boys" when describing gay military veterans.
Councillor Cocking immediately closed this dialogue down, however the resident persisted. Cocking marched round to the resident and aggressively stated she would have to leave. The Town Clerk said the meeting would be suspended, the resident stated she was disgusted by Councillor Horton's homophobic online behaviour and that the council were not doing anything about it. She also stated that Councillor Horton had no right to state online that women of a certain age should cover up whilst he is posting pictures of himself in his pants online. She then left.
As a bystander it felt like Portland Town Council has a somewhat loose canon in their fold and no-one is prepared to do anything about him, despite the disrepute he is bringing to the Portland Town Council."
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group would welcome a comment from Portland Town Council about this issue.
We wonder what EDI awareness training both Councillors and staff have? - if any? We can recommend a local EDI trainer!
See story below "LGBT memorial - Portland Councillor makes "homophobic" post"
We are expecting local media to cover this story.
See Dorset Eye - (Well worth reading) https://dorseteye.com/a-crisis-of-accountability-portland-town-council-faces-backlash-over-bigoted-councillor/
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- Over negative LGBT remarks. (posted here 21/11/25)
Below is a report about The Portland Town Council meeting on Wednesday 19th Nov (by someone who attended), regarding a councillor and his negative comments about our LGBT+ Community.
"The chair (Councillor Sue Cocking) and Councillor Horton arrived at the meeting in the same car, implying a degree of mutual friendship/co-operation.
Chaplin (to the Council) Angie McLachlan read a prayer then gave her letter of resignation and left immediately afterwards. This was not acknowledged in any way by the Chair Sue Cocking.
Unusually the Chair gave very strict guidelines regarding what could and could not be discussed in the democratic half an hour. Meaning no mention of Councillor Horton's online behaviour could be discussed. Not very democratic at all.
A local resident challenged this and directly asked Portland Town Councillors how they felt about Councillor Scott Horton using phrases like "soppy fairies" and "femme fresh camp Nancy boys" when describing gay military veterans.
Councillor Cocking immediately closed this dialogue down, however the resident persisted. Cocking marched round to the resident and aggressively stated she would have to leave. The Town Clerk said the meeting would be suspended, the resident stated she was disgusted by Councillor Horton's homophobic online behaviour and that the council were not doing anything about it. She also stated that Councillor Horton had no right to state online that women of a certain age should cover up whilst he is posting pictures of himself in his pants online. She then left.
As a bystander it felt like Portland Town Council has a somewhat loose canon in their fold and no-one is prepared to do anything about him, despite the disrepute he is bringing to the Portland Town Council."
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group would welcome a comment from Portland Town Council about this issue.
We wonder what EDI awareness training both Councillors and staff have? - if any? We can recommend a local EDI trainer!
See story below "LGBT memorial - Portland Councillor makes "homophobic" post"
We are expecting local media to cover this story.
See Dorset Eye - (Well worth reading) https://dorseteye.com/a-crisis-of-accountability-portland-town-council-faces-backlash-over-bigoted-councillor/
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The Only Gay In The Village? - Exeter University (posted here 23/11/2025) Alec, who is a Doctoral Researcher at The University of Exeter recently visited Weymouth Gay Group. He shared deatils of his reseach based around the years 1967 - 1987 in the South West of UK. Details on poster right. (Click to enlarge). Website:- https://sites.exeter.ac.uk/gayinthevillage email [email protected] We are sure he would love to hear from you if you feel you can assit. |
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Trans Day of Remembrance TDoR (posted here 10/11/2025)
Two events in Dorchester Hospital 11 am Town Pump 6.30pm Dorchester County Hospital Pride Network are doing a Remembrance service on the day. 11am at the Pride Garden in the hospital. All welcome. Details below. The Trans Solidarity Dorset group are organizing a vigil for Trans Day of Remembrance 6.30pm - Town Pump, Dorchester. More info see poster right. 
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Dorchester Town Council will be flying a Trans Flag at the Corn Exchange from 16 - 20 November 2026.
What is Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR)? It is an annual observance on November 20th that memorializes transgender people who have been killed as a result of anti-transgender violence. It serves to raise awareness of the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by the transgender community and to honor the memory of those lost to it
What is Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR)? It is an annual observance on November 20th that memorializes transgender people who have been killed as a result of anti-transgender violence. It serves to raise awareness of the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by the transgender community and to honor the memory of those lost to it
LGBT memorial - Portland Councillor makes "homophobic" post (29/10/2025 updates 01/11/2025, 02/11/2025, 03/11/2025)
This is a developing breaking news story, and we are sure more will follow soon. Which we hope to add below.
This is a developing breaking news story, and we are sure more will follow soon. Which we hope to add below.
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Photos of Dorset Echo pages with thanks to Dorset Eye
(click on photos to enlarge) |
What we know so far ...
The Dorset Echo story is / was only available to its subscribers. However we hear it was on their front page, printed edition (Wed 29th October).
Their online report may have been edited, according to some.
Many Portland (and beyond) LGBT+ people have expressed their shock at his negative homophobic & transphobic comments.
The Portland Town councillor Scott Horton, has removed his offending comments from Facebook.
Scott Horton has responded on his FB page. saying he resigned from the Dorset Independents group. However, other sources say he was
"booted off the Independents For Dorset" yesterday (31st Oct) (he didn't resign) but he is still an Independent Councillor for Portland Town Council
He says on The Portland Town Council website:-
"I intend to serve, protect, promote, unite and develop our community and all that is Portland."
See:- https://portlandtowncouncil.gov.uk/council/councillors
Many would suggest he is failing not only our LGBT+ Community, but everyone in his community.
There is a Town Council meeting on 19th November, and this may well be an issue brought up then.
So stay tuned. More info when we get it!
Links:-
Dorset Echo https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25578767.portland-town-councillor-shares-homophobic-facebook-post/
Dorset Eye - https://dorseteye.com/resigned-or-pushed-homophobic-councillor-who-admires-tommy-robinson-faces-community-backlash/
No Outsiders. LGBT sculpture
For Schools (and perhaps some councillors!) assembly plan -https://no-outsiders-assembly.blogspot.com/2025/10/lgbt-sculpture.html
We feel this is EXTREAMLY good! Well worth you reading.
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The Dorset Echo story is / was only available to its subscribers. However we hear it was on their front page, printed edition (Wed 29th October).
Their online report may have been edited, according to some.
Many Portland (and beyond) LGBT+ people have expressed their shock at his negative homophobic & transphobic comments.
The Portland Town councillor Scott Horton, has removed his offending comments from Facebook.
Scott Horton has responded on his FB page. saying he resigned from the Dorset Independents group. However, other sources say he was
"booted off the Independents For Dorset" yesterday (31st Oct) (he didn't resign) but he is still an Independent Councillor for Portland Town Council
He says on The Portland Town Council website:-
"I intend to serve, protect, promote, unite and develop our community and all that is Portland."
See:- https://portlandtowncouncil.gov.uk/council/councillors
Many would suggest he is failing not only our LGBT+ Community, but everyone in his community.
There is a Town Council meeting on 19th November, and this may well be an issue brought up then.
So stay tuned. More info when we get it!
Links:-
Dorset Echo https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25578767.portland-town-councillor-shares-homophobic-facebook-post/
Dorset Eye - https://dorseteye.com/resigned-or-pushed-homophobic-councillor-who-admires-tommy-robinson-faces-community-backlash/
No Outsiders. LGBT sculpture
For Schools (and perhaps some councillors!) assembly plan -https://no-outsiders-assembly.blogspot.com/2025/10/lgbt-sculpture.html
We feel this is EXTREAMLY good! Well worth you reading.
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Sandi Toksvig - Dorset TV show (posted here 27/10/2025)
The much loved TV personality (and Lesbian) Sandi Toksvig will be on our tv screens with a programme about Archaeology in Dorset.
Extract from The Dorset Echo:-
"More than 40 years after earning her degree in Archaeology and Anthropology from Cambridge, Sandi is dusting off her trowel and getting her hands dirty again, joining four of the nation’s most extraordinary digs. In the first episode, they go on an extraordinary dig in Dorset, where a team from Bournemouth University are unearthing the secrets of a 2000-year-old Iron Age cemetery. The excavation, at Winterborne Kingston, near Bere Regis, is headed by Dr Miles Russell, principal academic in Prehistoric and Roman Archaeology at Bournemouth University"
Sandi Toksvig’s Hidden Wonders will air on More4 at 9pm on November 4, and available on their catch up service.
You can read the full Dorset Echo story here -
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25573058.dorset-appear-sandi-toksvigs-hidden-wonders-more4/
Note:- Sandi has not always been complimentary about Dorset - she got a ban from Weymouth years ago!
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The much loved TV personality (and Lesbian) Sandi Toksvig will be on our tv screens with a programme about Archaeology in Dorset.
Extract from The Dorset Echo:-
"More than 40 years after earning her degree in Archaeology and Anthropology from Cambridge, Sandi is dusting off her trowel and getting her hands dirty again, joining four of the nation’s most extraordinary digs. In the first episode, they go on an extraordinary dig in Dorset, where a team from Bournemouth University are unearthing the secrets of a 2000-year-old Iron Age cemetery. The excavation, at Winterborne Kingston, near Bere Regis, is headed by Dr Miles Russell, principal academic in Prehistoric and Roman Archaeology at Bournemouth University"
Sandi Toksvig’s Hidden Wonders will air on More4 at 9pm on November 4, and available on their catch up service.
You can read the full Dorset Echo story here -
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25573058.dorset-appear-sandi-toksvigs-hidden-wonders-more4/
Note:- Sandi has not always been complimentary about Dorset - she got a ban from Weymouth years ago!
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This is Me donate to Space (posted here 25/10/2025)
The Dorchester based "This is Me" group recently donated funds to two local good causes. Anabelle, who runs This is Me with Debs, said:-
"This is me Dorset is a group who meet at Tom Browns monthly and is open to all sections of the lgbtqi+ spectrum our main goal is to fundraise to donate to other charities mainly LGBTQI +. This year we donated £400 to Space Youth Project and also £400 to Keith Fest a charitable music festival who raise funds for small local mental health charities."
Note:- This is Me often have Rainbow gift stalls at many of the Pride events both in Dorset and across the far South West.
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The Dorchester based "This is Me" group recently donated funds to two local good causes. Anabelle, who runs This is Me with Debs, said:-
"This is me Dorset is a group who meet at Tom Browns monthly and is open to all sections of the lgbtqi+ spectrum our main goal is to fundraise to donate to other charities mainly LGBTQI +. This year we donated £400 to Space Youth Project and also £400 to Keith Fest a charitable music festival who raise funds for small local mental health charities."
Note:- This is Me often have Rainbow gift stalls at many of the Pride events both in Dorset and across the far South West.
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Age Friendly Dorset - Weymouth Gay Group evening - Report from the event, plus Survey info.
(posted here 15/10/20225)
Around a dozen Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) guys recently attended a special Age Friendly evening at The Swan. The event was part of Dorset Councils outreach having joined the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities in October 2025.
Special guest Sarah Parsons, Ageing Well Programme Lead, Dorset Council attended to listen to the views and life stories around growing older and being LGBT+ in Dorset.
She said "It was really lovely meeting you and the group yesterday. Please thank Tony and Mervin for making the journey. Their story is lovely, and how they feel so settled and supported where they live is just how we want everyone to feel.
Please pass on my thanks again to everyone who chatted with me and shared their stories and ideas. Without conversation, this programme will go nowhere. I would be very happy to come back any time to chat or listen if needed, and very happy to return to share the survey feedback too.
I have attached the poster with the survey links. We will be running the survey until the end of December, so we will share again over the following months. Thanks for reaching out and showcasing your network."
You can take part (if you are 50+) in the survey via the QR code below, or by requesting a survey form at our WGG pub meetups.
(posted here 15/10/20225)
Around a dozen Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) guys recently attended a special Age Friendly evening at The Swan. The event was part of Dorset Councils outreach having joined the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities in October 2025.
Special guest Sarah Parsons, Ageing Well Programme Lead, Dorset Council attended to listen to the views and life stories around growing older and being LGBT+ in Dorset.
She said "It was really lovely meeting you and the group yesterday. Please thank Tony and Mervin for making the journey. Their story is lovely, and how they feel so settled and supported where they live is just how we want everyone to feel.
Please pass on my thanks again to everyone who chatted with me and shared their stories and ideas. Without conversation, this programme will go nowhere. I would be very happy to come back any time to chat or listen if needed, and very happy to return to share the survey feedback too.
I have attached the poster with the survey links. We will be running the survey until the end of December, so we will share again over the following months. Thanks for reaching out and showcasing your network."
You can take part (if you are 50+) in the survey via the QR code below, or by requesting a survey form at our WGG pub meetups.
More info Click on letter right, to enlarge.
Survey Links- https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/age-friendly-dorset https://consultation.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/adults/age-friendly-dorset-2025 More info sroll down to see our news story below "LGBT+ and growing older in Dorset?" |
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Thanks also to Age UK Dorset, for supplying copies of their excellent, recently updated, "LGBT+ Navigating later life" booklet
Note:-
From Dorset Council.
You are invited to join us at Dorset’s Stakeholder Conversation on Age-friendly Communities at the Dorford Centre on 20th November. This will come hot on the heels of the most recent event on Social Connection in September and will be the first public conversation about what it takes to become an Age-friendly Community.
Dorset are at the start of its journey to become an Age-friendly Community. At the heart of it all, is the desire for people to live better, where every generation, disability or background enjoys life, as they age.
This event brings together community organisations, key partners and leaders to explore what Age-friendly Communities mean for Dorset. You will be able to discuss plans and shape how we take the plans forward.
More info:- If you would like to join us, please book your place using this link
https://Dorsets_Stakeholder_Conversation_on_Age_friendly_Communities.eventbrite.co.uk
Ellen Childs Project Support Officer Projects 1 Dorset Council 01305 221597
Note:-
From Dorset Council.
You are invited to join us at Dorset’s Stakeholder Conversation on Age-friendly Communities at the Dorford Centre on 20th November. This will come hot on the heels of the most recent event on Social Connection in September and will be the first public conversation about what it takes to become an Age-friendly Community.
Dorset are at the start of its journey to become an Age-friendly Community. At the heart of it all, is the desire for people to live better, where every generation, disability or background enjoys life, as they age.
This event brings together community organisations, key partners and leaders to explore what Age-friendly Communities mean for Dorset. You will be able to discuss plans and shape how we take the plans forward.
More info:- If you would like to join us, please book your place using this link
https://Dorsets_Stakeholder_Conversation_on_Age_friendly_Communities.eventbrite.co.uk
Ellen Childs Project Support Officer Projects 1 Dorset Council 01305 221597
Hate Crime in Dorset - Transgender crimes down (?), religious crimes up (posted here 15/10/2025)
Dorset media has reacted to the recently released county wide hate crime numbers, with The Dorset Echo, and Dorset Eye reporting this.
Hate crimes in Dorset increase by 40 in one year (Dorset Echo) :-
www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25543553.hate-crimes-dorset-increase-40-one-year/
Do you Trust Dorset Police to Take Hate Crime Seriously in the County? (Dorset Eye) :-
https://dorseteye.com/do-you-trust-dorset-police-to-take-hate-crime-seriously-in-the-county/
Extract from Dorset Echo
A hate crime is defined as “any criminal offence which is perceived, by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone based on a personal characteristic”. They are separated into five categories: race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability and transgender identity. The number of religious hate crimes reported in Dorset has increased in the county each year since 2020 and a number of significant hate crimes have occurred across the BCP area in recent months.
Dorset Police’s hate crime lead, chief inspector Darren Moores, said: "Dorset Police stands with those affected by hate crime. “Our officers and staff are dedicated to supporting our communities and raising standards of hate crime investigations. "Not all hate crime is reported in Dorset and we encourage those affected or have witnessed a hate crime, to use this week as an opportunity to report offences they have seen or experienced.
Dorset Eye opens its news story saying - "As National Hate Crime Awareness Week begins (Saturday 11th October – Saturday 18th October 2025), Dorset Police has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to tackling offences motivated by prejudice. But the key question remains for residents: do you have confidence in the Force to handle these sensitive investigations effectively?
And adds: - National figures and local anecdotes often point to a gap between police commitment and community confidence, particularly among minority groups who may be most affected. The success of this week’s initiative, and Dorset Police’s broader strategy, ultimately depends on whether potential victims feel able to come forward.
Dorset Eye then invites you to contac them if .... Do the reassurances from senior figures give you confidence? Have you or someone you know had experience reporting a hate crime in Dorset? Do you trust the police to investigate these incidents with the sensitivity and seriousness they deserve?
Galop, the organisation supporting LGBT+ victims of hate crime said:- "The newly released Official Statistics for Hate Crime appear to show an overall decrease in anti-LGBT+ hate crime in England and Wales in 2024 - 2025. This decrease does not reflect the reality of hate experienced by our community, as the majority of anti-LGBT+ hate crime goes unreported. The Government’s 2017 National LGBT+ Survey showed that 91% of respondents did not report their most serious incident of anti-LGBT+ hate crime to the police. The Home Office has stated itself that “Figures from the police” should “not be seen as a good measure of prevalence” since not all hate crime is reported to them."
You can read Galops full statement 2024/2025 here - www.galop.org.uk/news/statement-on-2024-25-official-statistics-for-hate-crime-england-and-wales
Links /advice/ support / further reading :-
Hate crimes and intelligence about ongoing hate crime activities can be reported via the Dorset Police website: Hate crime | Dorset Police.
Weymouth Gay Group Helplines page - with Dorset Police, Galop and other contacts for reporting Hate Crime
- weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Galop National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Trans Domestic Abuse Helpline
website:- http://www.galop.org.uk/ Phone: 0300 999 5428 or 0800 999 5428 Email: [email protected]
National Hate Crime awareness week - https://nationalhcaw.uk/ #NationalHCAW
Stop Hate UK - https://www.stophateuk.org/national-hate-crime-awareness-week/
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Transgeder Cancer Care - a Community Research Project (posted here 15/10/2025)
The Dorset based charity "Help and Care" have launched this project recently ..... (copy from their website)
In 2023, a joint bid was submitted to National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) to deliver a project using a Community Research model. This project focuses on trans+ people who experience inequity and inaccessibility in cancer services. The project is being led by Help & Care alongside partners Macmillan Cancer Support, Beyond Reflections, Bournemouth University, Southampton University Hospital, Wessex Cancer Trust and Wessex Cancer Alliance.
Through the project, we will also be engaging with a wide group of cancer service professionals to develop a shared understanding of how cancer inequalities manifest for trans+ people. Our aim is to raise the level of ambition around eradicating cancer inequalities and develop a commitment to act on the solutions our research creates.
To lead the work, we have recruited, with the support of Beyond Reflections (Dorset & Hampshire based), 4 trans+ community researchers, who will be mentored by Bournemouth University and supported in their cancer understanding through a clinical nurse specialist. The community researchers will be leading discussions and arts-based workshops with trans+ people who have cancer service experiences and will support them through the process of generating solutions that would address challenges that they faced.
The community researchers will then refine the solutions with service providers and commissioners in the NHS and voluntary sector to create actionable goals for change within cancer care and support services.
More info and links here:-
Help and Care https://involvingpeople.org/project/tacc/
Beyond Reflections https://beyond-reflections.org.uk/
Beyond Reflections is a charity working to create a safe community for trans+ people and their allies, providing support designed with and for the community.
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The Dorset based charity "Help and Care" have launched this project recently ..... (copy from their website)
In 2023, a joint bid was submitted to National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) to deliver a project using a Community Research model. This project focuses on trans+ people who experience inequity and inaccessibility in cancer services. The project is being led by Help & Care alongside partners Macmillan Cancer Support, Beyond Reflections, Bournemouth University, Southampton University Hospital, Wessex Cancer Trust and Wessex Cancer Alliance.
Through the project, we will also be engaging with a wide group of cancer service professionals to develop a shared understanding of how cancer inequalities manifest for trans+ people. Our aim is to raise the level of ambition around eradicating cancer inequalities and develop a commitment to act on the solutions our research creates.
To lead the work, we have recruited, with the support of Beyond Reflections (Dorset & Hampshire based), 4 trans+ community researchers, who will be mentored by Bournemouth University and supported in their cancer understanding through a clinical nurse specialist. The community researchers will be leading discussions and arts-based workshops with trans+ people who have cancer service experiences and will support them through the process of generating solutions that would address challenges that they faced.
The community researchers will then refine the solutions with service providers and commissioners in the NHS and voluntary sector to create actionable goals for change within cancer care and support services.
More info and links here:-
Help and Care https://involvingpeople.org/project/tacc/
Beyond Reflections https://beyond-reflections.org.uk/
Beyond Reflections is a charity working to create a safe community for trans+ people and their allies, providing support designed with and for the community.
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Joint Statement: LGBT+ Sector stands up against racism (posted here 04/10/2025)
Copy from Consortium October newsletter
We are proud to represent charities, community groups and social enterprises supporting LGBTQ+ people across the UK and around the world. Amid rising far-right protests and racism, we want to say clearly that we stand shoulder to shoulder with everyone in our diverse LGBTQ+ communities, particularly people of colour, Muslims, migrants, refugees and people seeking asylum.
You are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone.
We, like most people in our society, are anxious about the rising division, hostility, and hate that we are seeing on our streets and in the news.
We remain firmly committed to equality, human rights and the rule of law. Our support will never waver. Together, we’re working towards a future where everyone can live freely, safely, and with dignity -- side by side, without fear or prejudice.
Consortium members (WGG is a member) can add their name in support. Lets chat about supporting this at our Weymouth Gay Group pub meetups.
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Copy from Consortium October newsletter
We are proud to represent charities, community groups and social enterprises supporting LGBTQ+ people across the UK and around the world. Amid rising far-right protests and racism, we want to say clearly that we stand shoulder to shoulder with everyone in our diverse LGBTQ+ communities, particularly people of colour, Muslims, migrants, refugees and people seeking asylum.
You are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone.
We, like most people in our society, are anxious about the rising division, hostility, and hate that we are seeing on our streets and in the news.
We remain firmly committed to equality, human rights and the rule of law. Our support will never waver. Together, we’re working towards a future where everyone can live freely, safely, and with dignity -- side by side, without fear or prejudice.
Consortium members (WGG is a member) can add their name in support. Lets chat about supporting this at our Weymouth Gay Group pub meetups.
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Are our LGBT+ Rights under threat? (posted here 04/10/2025)
- Dorset LGBT+ community express concerns
Several people from the Dorset LGBT+ community have expressed their views recently, raising the alarm. While no change is forecast in the near future, a growing number of LGBT+ people fear what could happen.
Many would agree that Human Rights form the basic building blocks of a civilised society. A Google search says:- "Human rights are fundamental rights inherent to all humans, outlined in documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), including rights to life, freedom from torture, liberty, a fair trial, privacy, freedom of expression and religion, and rights to work, education, and social security. These rights are universal and cannot be taken away." (Well we hope not!)
Do Human Rights apply to everyone? Or can you pick and choose only the ones you like? ... !
How would you feel if ....
You can not identify as a LGBT+ person?
You could not meet other LGBT+ people in a safe public place?
You can not fly your Rainbow flag? (at home or at work)
Your Pride events are banned?
You could not access LGBT+ books in your local Library or Book shop?
Your children are not taught about differences, embracing others, and being themselves?
You could not openly love the person that you do!
You could no longer be YOU!
Weymouth Gay Group is a social pub group, and while we are non-political we embrace LGBT+ people with a wide range of personal views. Diversity with respect, is embraced around our pub tables. (politely please!)
However, we all know what they say about turkeys at Christmas .......
Links / more info / suggested reading:-
UN Human Rights - https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights
Human rights Act - https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/human-rights/human-rights-act
Pink News - www.thepinknews.com/
Peter Tatchall Foundation - www.petertatchellfoundation.org/
Consortium - https://www.consortium.lgbt/
Hope Not Hate - hopenothate.org.uk/
Dorset Eye - https://dorseteye.com/
Farage is coming for our Human Rights https://www.tribunemag.co.uk/2025/10/farage-is-coming-for-our-human-rights
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- Dorset LGBT+ community express concerns
Several people from the Dorset LGBT+ community have expressed their views recently, raising the alarm. While no change is forecast in the near future, a growing number of LGBT+ people fear what could happen.
Many would agree that Human Rights form the basic building blocks of a civilised society. A Google search says:- "Human rights are fundamental rights inherent to all humans, outlined in documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), including rights to life, freedom from torture, liberty, a fair trial, privacy, freedom of expression and religion, and rights to work, education, and social security. These rights are universal and cannot be taken away." (Well we hope not!)
Do Human Rights apply to everyone? Or can you pick and choose only the ones you like? ... !
How would you feel if ....
You can not identify as a LGBT+ person?
You could not meet other LGBT+ people in a safe public place?
You can not fly your Rainbow flag? (at home or at work)
Your Pride events are banned?
You could not access LGBT+ books in your local Library or Book shop?
Your children are not taught about differences, embracing others, and being themselves?
You could not openly love the person that you do!
You could no longer be YOU!
Weymouth Gay Group is a social pub group, and while we are non-political we embrace LGBT+ people with a wide range of personal views. Diversity with respect, is embraced around our pub tables. (politely please!)
However, we all know what they say about turkeys at Christmas .......
Links / more info / suggested reading:-
UN Human Rights - https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights
Human rights Act - https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/human-rights/human-rights-act
Pink News - www.thepinknews.com/
Peter Tatchall Foundation - www.petertatchellfoundation.org/
Consortium - https://www.consortium.lgbt/
Hope Not Hate - hopenothate.org.uk/
Dorset Eye - https://dorseteye.com/
Farage is coming for our Human Rights https://www.tribunemag.co.uk/2025/10/farage-is-coming-for-our-human-rights
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LGBTQ poets contribute to Trail across Weymouth and Portland (posted here 04/10/2015)
Extract from Dorset Echo.
You can read the full story here:- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25511018.omniverse-poetry-trail-launced-across-weymouth-portland/
Thirty poems by residents from across the generations are now in place across Weymouth and Portland as part of an interactive trail.
Each poetry location features a QR code that people can scan with their phone to access a dedicated webpage where they can read the poem, and in some cases, listen to a recording of the poet performing their work.
The project particularly focused on using under-represented voices, including LGBTQ+, neurodivergent and disabled poets.
Links:-
Jawbone Collective - www.jawbonecollective.org.uk/omniverse
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOeXha6DGcR/?hl=en
Dorset Echo - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25511018.omniverse-poetry-trail-launced-across-weymouth-portland/
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Extract from Dorset Echo.
You can read the full story here:- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25511018.omniverse-poetry-trail-launced-across-weymouth-portland/
Thirty poems by residents from across the generations are now in place across Weymouth and Portland as part of an interactive trail.
Each poetry location features a QR code that people can scan with their phone to access a dedicated webpage where they can read the poem, and in some cases, listen to a recording of the poet performing their work.
The project particularly focused on using under-represented voices, including LGBTQ+, neurodivergent and disabled poets.
Links:-
Jawbone Collective - www.jawbonecollective.org.uk/omniverse
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOeXha6DGcR/?hl=en
Dorset Echo - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25511018.omniverse-poetry-trail-launced-across-weymouth-portland/
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LGBT+ and growing older in Dorset?
(posted here 06/09/2025, updates 15/09/2025, 25/09/2025)
The International Day of Older People, on 1st October, is a UN-designated day honouring the contribution of older people and raises awareness of the challenges they face, and the importance of ensuring that people can grow old with dignity and purpose.
Dorset is blessed with lots of support for younger LGBT+ people, and rightly so.
But what if you are of an older LGBT+ mature generation?
You may have had to hide your sexuality or gender in the past. Living through section 28? Perhaps living a "lie" to others? Being married to the opposite gender and having a family, or embracing in later life your true self as transgender?
(posted here 06/09/2025, updates 15/09/2025, 25/09/2025)
The International Day of Older People, on 1st October, is a UN-designated day honouring the contribution of older people and raises awareness of the challenges they face, and the importance of ensuring that people can grow old with dignity and purpose.
Dorset is blessed with lots of support for younger LGBT+ people, and rightly so.
But what if you are of an older LGBT+ mature generation?
You may have had to hide your sexuality or gender in the past. Living through section 28? Perhaps living a "lie" to others? Being married to the opposite gender and having a family, or embracing in later life your true self as transgender?
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Dorset Council are soon to hopefully embrace the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities as a Dorset Council area.
We feel the older Dorset LGBT+ Community needs to be part of this! What support and areas would you like the Council to embrace locally? Travel, health, care homes? How can the Council help you better as a mature LGBT+ person? We will be running a special evening about this on 13th October with a representative from Dorset Council to listen to your suggestions and life stories. 6.30pm The Swan pub Weymouth. Tables 26 / 27. More info on poster right (click on it to enlarge). Or email [email protected] For faster updates join us at our pub meetups! Links / info:- The International Day of Older People - www.un.org/en/observances/older-persons-day Weymouth Gay Group events - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/wgg-events.html Dorset Council - https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/news/dorset-joins-uk-wide-celebration-for-international-day-of-older-people - www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/age-friendly-dorset |
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NOTE:- Age UK have recently updated their brilliant booklet -
Navigating later life - An Age UK LGBT+ Booklet
It is available online to download from Age UK website.
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/globalassets/age-uk/documents/information-guides/ageukig02_lesbian_gay_bisexual_transgender_inf.pdf
The booklet says:- "This information guide has been produced withthe help of older people, carers and expert peer reviewers. This guide has kindly been peer reviewed by Opening Doors and the LGBT Foundation.
Published: May 2022" NOTE updated publication June 2025.
Navigating later life - An Age UK LGBT+ Booklet
It is available online to download from Age UK website.
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/globalassets/age-uk/documents/information-guides/ageukig02_lesbian_gay_bisexual_transgender_inf.pdf
The booklet says:- "This information guide has been produced withthe help of older people, carers and expert peer reviewers. This guide has kindly been peer reviewed by Opening Doors and the LGBT Foundation.
Published: May 2022" NOTE updated publication June 2025.
From Consortium October newsletter (posted here 04/10/2025)
"We are pleased to launch the Older LGBTQ+ Londoner's Guide 2025.
A printed resource created through a pilot project with older LGBTQ+ people and organisations across London. This pilot project responds to the serious gaps in support for older LGBTQ+ Londoners.
The guide is a printed resource listing groups, events and services by and for LGBTQ+ people over 50."
More info - https://www.consortium.lgbt/opresource/
Does Dorset need a similar guide?
Discuss this and more at our special pub evening on 13th October at our LGBT+ growing older special evening.
"We are pleased to launch the Older LGBTQ+ Londoner's Guide 2025.
A printed resource created through a pilot project with older LGBTQ+ people and organisations across London. This pilot project responds to the serious gaps in support for older LGBTQ+ Londoners.
The guide is a printed resource listing groups, events and services by and for LGBTQ+ people over 50."
More info - https://www.consortium.lgbt/opresource/
Does Dorset need a similar guide?
Discuss this and more at our special pub evening on 13th October at our LGBT+ growing older special evening.
Volunteers needed - Space Youth Project - (posted here 30/08/2025)
Space Youth Project is a LGBT+ Charity working with LGBT+ young people in the Dorset area.
They said:- We run free youth groups in Bridport, Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorchester, Poole, Sherborne and Weymouth. At the groups young people get to be themselves in a safe space without judgment or prejudice. They learn life skills, make friends and enjoy various activities, such as arts and crafts. They are also given the opportunity to attend days out, this year we have already done Brownsea Island, met MP's in Parliament, attend Prides, had an adventure weekend away at Avon Tyrell, did a scavenger hunt at Upton Country Park, visited Max Gate for a planting session, can a summer fun day at Kingston Lacy when it was closed to the public and we still have a Halloween trip to Hardy's cottage planned!
We are looking for volunteer support youth workers at our Bridport, Dorchester and Weymouth groups. You will be given full training and those skills you will learn are transferable. Have a look at our website page on why volunteering for Space Youth Project is so rewarding and very much appreciated. As a volunteer you would also be able to attend any of the day trips you wish too. If you would like to join our friendly team and help support the LGBT+ young people of Dorset please email [email protected] for an application form.
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Space Youth Project is a LGBT+ Charity working with LGBT+ young people in the Dorset area.
They said:- We run free youth groups in Bridport, Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorchester, Poole, Sherborne and Weymouth. At the groups young people get to be themselves in a safe space without judgment or prejudice. They learn life skills, make friends and enjoy various activities, such as arts and crafts. They are also given the opportunity to attend days out, this year we have already done Brownsea Island, met MP's in Parliament, attend Prides, had an adventure weekend away at Avon Tyrell, did a scavenger hunt at Upton Country Park, visited Max Gate for a planting session, can a summer fun day at Kingston Lacy when it was closed to the public and we still have a Halloween trip to Hardy's cottage planned!
We are looking for volunteer support youth workers at our Bridport, Dorchester and Weymouth groups. You will be given full training and those skills you will learn are transferable. Have a look at our website page on why volunteering for Space Youth Project is so rewarding and very much appreciated. As a volunteer you would also be able to attend any of the day trips you wish too. If you would like to join our friendly team and help support the LGBT+ young people of Dorset please email [email protected] for an application form.
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Section 28 and Me (the b-side edition) (posted here 29/08/2025)
Friday 12th Sept, Royal Manor Theatre, 138A Fortuneswell, Portland DT5 1LT 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Part performance, part presentation, this b-side edition invites audiences into theatre-maker Tom Marshman’s creative process, as he reflects on making and touring the original show across the UK. A playful, honest, and heartfelt portrait exploring the legacy of Section 28—legislation that silenced queer voices in schools from 1988 to 2003.
Friday 12th Sept, Royal Manor Theatre, 138A Fortuneswell, Portland DT5 1LT 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Part performance, part presentation, this b-side edition invites audiences into theatre-maker Tom Marshman’s creative process, as he reflects on making and touring the original show across the UK. A playful, honest, and heartfelt portrait exploring the legacy of Section 28—legislation that silenced queer voices in schools from 1988 to 2003.
Through storytelling, tea parties, and conversation, Tom asked queer communities: What’s your Section 28 story? From living rooms to libraries, including a very special gathering in Portland hosted by b-side’s LGBT+side group, he collected powerful intergenerational responses. These voices—funny, raw, and deeply personal—challenge the shame and silence of that era. In the show, Tom explores how growing up under Section 28 shaped him—as both a show-off and an oversharer. Drawing from his past performances, personal memories, and even his dad’s surprising perspective, he revisits a time of erasure to celebrate queer resilience and visibility.
More info and tickets:- https://b-side.org.uk/events/section-28-and-me/
Above is part of b-side BIG weekend 2025
b-side’s Big Weekend honours the spirit of Portland and Weymouth as Towns of Culture 2025, revealing untold stories from our island.
With inspirational artists and communities as your guide, discover memories from the armed forces, moments of joy and resilience in LGBTQ+ lives, and heartfelt testimonies from those seeking asylum. Whether you’re joining a mass stitching workshop to complete the Portland Dress, or dancing in a boxing ring, come celebrate the extraordinary people, captivating stories, and creative spirit that make Portland truly unique.
More info:- https://b-side.org.uk/
b-side’s Big Weekend honours the spirit of Portland and Weymouth as Towns of Culture 2025, revealing untold stories from our island.
With inspirational artists and communities as your guide, discover memories from the armed forces, moments of joy and resilience in LGBTQ+ lives, and heartfelt testimonies from those seeking asylum. Whether you’re joining a mass stitching workshop to complete the Portland Dress, or dancing in a boxing ring, come celebrate the extraordinary people, captivating stories, and creative spirit that make Portland truly unique.
More info:- https://b-side.org.uk/
Sylvia Townsend Warner statue Dorchester, 2K to go (posted here 20/08/2025)
Visible WomenUK organisers of this project have cotacted us and said ....
Help us make history in Dorchester! We’re raising a statue to Sylvia Townsend Warner, and we’re nearly there.
Sylvia was a trailblazing writer, poet, and radical thinker who lived in Dorchester from the 1920s until her death in the 1970s. She was openly queer, fiercely independent, and decades ahead of her time. Yet despite her extraordinary contributions to literature and politics, she’s been largely written out of mainstream history, especially here in Dorset.
This is a county that loves to celebrate its literary men, Thomas Hardy, William Barnes, the Powys brothers, but it’s about time a woman was part of that celebration too. That’s where our statue campaign comes in. We’ve commissioned renowned sculptor Denise Dutton to create a permanent public statue of Sylvia in the heart of Dorchester. The unveiling is set for 14th December 2025, a powerful moment to honour a woman whose work and life deserve far more recognition.
Visible WomenUK organisers of this project have cotacted us and said ....
Help us make history in Dorchester! We’re raising a statue to Sylvia Townsend Warner, and we’re nearly there.
Sylvia was a trailblazing writer, poet, and radical thinker who lived in Dorchester from the 1920s until her death in the 1970s. She was openly queer, fiercely independent, and decades ahead of her time. Yet despite her extraordinary contributions to literature and politics, she’s been largely written out of mainstream history, especially here in Dorset.
This is a county that loves to celebrate its literary men, Thomas Hardy, William Barnes, the Powys brothers, but it’s about time a woman was part of that celebration too. That’s where our statue campaign comes in. We’ve commissioned renowned sculptor Denise Dutton to create a permanent public statue of Sylvia in the heart of Dorchester. The unveiling is set for 14th December 2025, a powerful moment to honour a woman whose work and life deserve far more recognition.
We’ve already raised £58,000 of our £60,000 target, an incredible community effort. Now we’re calling on you to help get us over the line. Can you help us raise the final £2,000? Every pound helps. You’ll be part of a campaign that’s not just about one statue, it’s about rebalancing history, celebrating queer and women’s voices, and putting forgotten figures back on the map.
Click the link below
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-raise-a-statue-for-sylvia-townsend-warner
Let’s make sure Sylvia Townsend Warner takes her rightful place in Dorset’s story.
#SylviaTownsendWarner #StatueCampaign #WomenInHistory #QueerVoices #DorchesterHistory #HiddenHistories #CelebrateDorset #LiteraryLegends
More info see:-
BBC reports:-
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr78j79d2ndo
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crrzk5jqkj2o
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9ql773rrz1o
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1mnj2e4529o
Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24682475.sylvia-townsend-warner-honoured-dorchester-statue/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25011545.new-statue-famous-female-writer-planned-dorchester/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24702950.dorchester-statue-townsend-warner-campaign-takes-off/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25108064.approval-sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-dorchester/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25121953.letter-sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-dorchester/
Click the link below
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-raise-a-statue-for-sylvia-townsend-warner
Let’s make sure Sylvia Townsend Warner takes her rightful place in Dorset’s story.
#SylviaTownsendWarner #StatueCampaign #WomenInHistory #QueerVoices #DorchesterHistory #HiddenHistories #CelebrateDorset #LiteraryLegends
More info see:-
BBC reports:-
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr78j79d2ndo
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crrzk5jqkj2o
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9ql773rrz1o
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1mnj2e4529o
Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24682475.sylvia-townsend-warner-honoured-dorchester-statue/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25011545.new-statue-famous-female-writer-planned-dorchester/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24702950.dorchester-statue-townsend-warner-campaign-takes-off/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25108064.approval-sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-dorchester/
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25121953.letter-sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-dorchester/
Gay Meet up activity group for Weymouth area? (posted here 16/08/2025)
A few guys have been discussing the idea of running a social activity type group in the Weymouth area.
Based on the Bournemouth “Meet Ups” groups online, it would offer similar activities like the three Bournemouth area Meet Up groups. They run a variety of events from Theater nights, lunch & dinner out, walks, kayaking, coffee shop meets and morning tea and cake to an evening paddle boarding !
A friend of our group said “Activities are arranged that appeal to the group, and nothing to do whatsoever with guys being gay, that fact is almost irrelevant.” While Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) is very much a twice weekly Pub and Restaurant meals out group, we would welcome a Weymouth Activities Meet Up group to join the local Dorset LGBT+ family of community organisations.
It remains to be seen how successful such a Weymouth area based activity group would be. Bournemouth has a huge catchment area that supports the three “Meet Up” groups. Any new group in Weymouth would benefit by embracing all the local Weymouth / Portland / Dorchester / Bridport area LGBT+ Community groups, and allies.
Of note in the past WGG have had a number of successful social events outside of our pub and restaurant environments. These have included weeklly Cinema nights (pre covid), Theatre nights, and our much liked Beach BBQs. WGG have also for many years traveled together to the many Dorset Pride events. Guys attending WGG often suggest new social events to take part in, including a new idea of a group holiday abroad!
Swan Weymouth Mondays for more info! Join us!
It should also be noted that many well establised local and visiing LGBT+ groups already offer a rage of outdoor events. Gay Out Door Club (GOC), OutDoor lads (ODL), GLUG (Gay and lesbian Underwater Group) plus more! We, WGG list these on The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page when happening in our area. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
For information about Dorset based LGBT+ groups (including the Bournemouth Meet Ups), plus groups who visit Dorset check out our page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
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A few guys have been discussing the idea of running a social activity type group in the Weymouth area.
Based on the Bournemouth “Meet Ups” groups online, it would offer similar activities like the three Bournemouth area Meet Up groups. They run a variety of events from Theater nights, lunch & dinner out, walks, kayaking, coffee shop meets and morning tea and cake to an evening paddle boarding !
A friend of our group said “Activities are arranged that appeal to the group, and nothing to do whatsoever with guys being gay, that fact is almost irrelevant.” While Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) is very much a twice weekly Pub and Restaurant meals out group, we would welcome a Weymouth Activities Meet Up group to join the local Dorset LGBT+ family of community organisations.
It remains to be seen how successful such a Weymouth area based activity group would be. Bournemouth has a huge catchment area that supports the three “Meet Up” groups. Any new group in Weymouth would benefit by embracing all the local Weymouth / Portland / Dorchester / Bridport area LGBT+ Community groups, and allies.
Of note in the past WGG have had a number of successful social events outside of our pub and restaurant environments. These have included weeklly Cinema nights (pre covid), Theatre nights, and our much liked Beach BBQs. WGG have also for many years traveled together to the many Dorset Pride events. Guys attending WGG often suggest new social events to take part in, including a new idea of a group holiday abroad!
Swan Weymouth Mondays for more info! Join us!
It should also be noted that many well establised local and visiing LGBT+ groups already offer a rage of outdoor events. Gay Out Door Club (GOC), OutDoor lads (ODL), GLUG (Gay and lesbian Underwater Group) plus more! We, WGG list these on The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page when happening in our area. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
For information about Dorset based LGBT+ groups (including the Bournemouth Meet Ups), plus groups who visit Dorset check out our page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
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Nautico Man funds Space! (posted here 04/08/2025)
Aaron, who is a manager at Weymouth's Nautico lounge, recently raised funds for Space Youth Project (SYP).
In the Space Youth Projects August newsletter, they thanked Aaron for raising over £870 for SYP. See below.
In the past before evening working, he was a regular and much welcomed person at our WGG pub meetups.
Nautico Lounge is very popular with our local community, with both The Weymouth Women's Gay Group, and Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) choosing this venue to meet up in.
Well done Aaron we say!
Links:-
Space Youth Project:- https://www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk/
Go fund me:- Here is the go fund me link
(copy below from SYP newsletter with approval from SYP and Aaron)
Aaron, who is a manager at Weymouth's Nautico lounge, recently raised funds for Space Youth Project (SYP).
In the Space Youth Projects August newsletter, they thanked Aaron for raising over £870 for SYP. See below.
In the past before evening working, he was a regular and much welcomed person at our WGG pub meetups.
Nautico Lounge is very popular with our local community, with both The Weymouth Women's Gay Group, and Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) choosing this venue to meet up in.
Well done Aaron we say!
Links:-
Space Youth Project:- https://www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk/
Go fund me:- Here is the go fund me link
(copy below from SYP newsletter with approval from SYP and Aaron)
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Local author talk Dorchester Library (posted here 02/08/2025 updated 21/08/2025)
- hidden homosexuality during WWII
Victoria Humphrey Saturday 23rd August.
Dorchester Library said in an email to WGG:-
A free event at Dorchester library that may be of interest to your members. It's a talk from local author Victoria L Humphrey on her latest novel The Other Way. It explores forbidden love and the legacy of hidden homosexuality during WWII. Set in 1940s Britain, it follows Lil and Margaret’s love, shattered by societal norms.
It's bookable via Eventbrite: The Other Way - Author Talk by Victoria L. Humphreys Tickets, Sat 23 Aug 2025 at 11:00 | Eventbrite
Dorchester Library and Learning Centre South Walks House, Charles Street Dorchester DT1 1EE
Dorset Echo covered this story here:- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25402335.dorset-author-explores-impact-trauma-new-novel/
Ms Humphreys said: "I didn’t set out to write a LGBTQ+ love story, but the characters just told me about themselves. I’m not gay, but have close relationships with people who are. "I know they have experienced repression and have spent years of their lives hiding that part of themselves."
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Farewell Neil (posted here 02/08/2025)
Weymouth Gay Group have recently said farewell to one of its most liked members.
Neil retires soon and moves up north. Neil, known as Neil number two (We have another one in our group with same name), or Neil R, or Rev Neil, has been a beautiful breath of fresh air around our pub and restaurant tables over the last few years. A unique and very much welcomed person, he will be really missed.
He was very generous recently covering the cost of his "last supper" at one of our group's restaurant meetups.
Weymouth Gay Group wish him well for his retirement, and hope he can enjoy growing lots of veg in his new garden! Hopefully Weymouth might be a future holiday destination - a number of us have spare rooms!
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Weymouth Gay Group have recently said farewell to one of its most liked members.
Neil retires soon and moves up north. Neil, known as Neil number two (We have another one in our group with same name), or Neil R, or Rev Neil, has been a beautiful breath of fresh air around our pub and restaurant tables over the last few years. A unique and very much welcomed person, he will be really missed.
He was very generous recently covering the cost of his "last supper" at one of our group's restaurant meetups.
Weymouth Gay Group wish him well for his retirement, and hope he can enjoy growing lots of veg in his new garden! Hopefully Weymouth might be a future holiday destination - a number of us have spare rooms!
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Community Pride blasts Dorset Police (17/07/2025)
In a post on social media (dated 14/07/2025) by Bournemouth Community Pride they said: -
"Because Bournemouth Police are cowardly to the point of not even allowing comments on their social media on this post, guess we have to do a full post about it.
The police should not be at any pride event. Of course there's the obvious point that the origins of Pride is that Stonewall was a riot against police brutality, but also let's think about what the police do right now. As soon as the supreme court made the ruling about "single-sex spaces", police forces made the decision to use that to do searches and strip searches on trans folks according to their sex assigned at birth. Bournemouth Police have a shameful history of racist, homophobic and sexist conduct that eventually lead to a couple of officers losing their jobs. Bournemouth Police attacked and hospitalised someone in the gardens on the day of pride 2021. The police are not allies, they are actively harming queer, trans and gender non-conforming folks and they absolutely cannot be welcome in LGBTQ+ spaces.
The only way that the violence of policing is normalised and allowed to continue is through propaganda like allowing them to pinkwash at events like this and erase our actual history. Pride events should be prioritising teaching queer history and uplifting queer activists, not having the police show up with vans, riot shields and - JFC - uniforms for kids to wear. It's hardly subtle, is it? It's absolutely shameful.
The privilege involved in making the choice to invite police to an event like this ignores the fear that police cause for many sections of the queer community and says that people marginalised at other intersections just don't matter. Without the continued threat of violence from the police, the genocide could not continue, corporations destroying the planet could not continue, fascists would not be protected when conducting their violence towards marginalised communities. They are an active part of every problem we face, and need to feel deeply ashamed of the role they play."
Links:-
https://www.petertatchellfoundation.org/police-forcibly-remove-peter-tatchell-from-birmingham-pride-march/
Bournemouth Community Pride:-
email [email protected]
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560573753583
Instagram @bournemouth.community.pride
Please Note:- Bournemouth Community Pride and Bournemouth Pride BourneFree are two separate Prides / organisations.
Suggestion:-
Has anyone from Bournemouth Community Pride, or others with concerns about this, written or contacted Dorset Police and the Crime Commissioner about this? We Weymouth Gay Group would be very interested to publish their response here!
Peter Tatchell (Veteran human rights campaigner) What does he say about Police at pride?
Read:- https://www.petertatchellfoundation.org/tatchell-ban-police-from-manchester-pride/
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In a post on social media (dated 14/07/2025) by Bournemouth Community Pride they said: -
"Because Bournemouth Police are cowardly to the point of not even allowing comments on their social media on this post, guess we have to do a full post about it.
The police should not be at any pride event. Of course there's the obvious point that the origins of Pride is that Stonewall was a riot against police brutality, but also let's think about what the police do right now. As soon as the supreme court made the ruling about "single-sex spaces", police forces made the decision to use that to do searches and strip searches on trans folks according to their sex assigned at birth. Bournemouth Police have a shameful history of racist, homophobic and sexist conduct that eventually lead to a couple of officers losing their jobs. Bournemouth Police attacked and hospitalised someone in the gardens on the day of pride 2021. The police are not allies, they are actively harming queer, trans and gender non-conforming folks and they absolutely cannot be welcome in LGBTQ+ spaces.
The only way that the violence of policing is normalised and allowed to continue is through propaganda like allowing them to pinkwash at events like this and erase our actual history. Pride events should be prioritising teaching queer history and uplifting queer activists, not having the police show up with vans, riot shields and - JFC - uniforms for kids to wear. It's hardly subtle, is it? It's absolutely shameful.
The privilege involved in making the choice to invite police to an event like this ignores the fear that police cause for many sections of the queer community and says that people marginalised at other intersections just don't matter. Without the continued threat of violence from the police, the genocide could not continue, corporations destroying the planet could not continue, fascists would not be protected when conducting their violence towards marginalised communities. They are an active part of every problem we face, and need to feel deeply ashamed of the role they play."
Links:-
https://www.petertatchellfoundation.org/police-forcibly-remove-peter-tatchell-from-birmingham-pride-march/
Bournemouth Community Pride:-
email [email protected]
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560573753583
Instagram @bournemouth.community.pride
Please Note:- Bournemouth Community Pride and Bournemouth Pride BourneFree are two separate Prides / organisations.
Suggestion:-
Has anyone from Bournemouth Community Pride, or others with concerns about this, written or contacted Dorset Police and the Crime Commissioner about this? We Weymouth Gay Group would be very interested to publish their response here!
Peter Tatchell (Veteran human rights campaigner) What does he say about Police at pride?
Read:- https://www.petertatchellfoundation.org/tatchell-ban-police-from-manchester-pride/
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Equity, Diversity & Inclusion in the Arts Training
This event is run by Dorchester Arts, they said:-
"Join us for a half-day training session designed to deepen your understanding of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in the arts sector. This practical and thought-provoking session will be led by Ebi Sosseh, a leading EDI trainer with over 20 years’ experience across the arts, NHS, education and community development."
Thursday 24 July 09:30 - 13:00 Links:- Info - lu.ma/gwhrhrxf
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This event is run by Dorchester Arts, they said:-
"Join us for a half-day training session designed to deepen your understanding of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in the arts sector. This practical and thought-provoking session will be led by Ebi Sosseh, a leading EDI trainer with over 20 years’ experience across the arts, NHS, education and community development."
Thursday 24 July 09:30 - 13:00 Links:- Info - lu.ma/gwhrhrxf
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Bournemouth Pride - Jonai reports (posted here 14/07/205)
Our Jonai (on left) sent us this report of the gay day!
"The weather was sunny and extremely hot and it was a beautiful day for our LGBT community to get together. The parade was very colourful . The main crowd was at the lower garden where people were under the trees. They cheered us on. Dorset NHS HealthCare Trust and Dorset County Hospital got together. We were given plenty of water and nibbles during the procession. There were lots of support for our community."
Our Jonai (on left) sent us this report of the gay day!
"The weather was sunny and extremely hot and it was a beautiful day for our LGBT community to get together. The parade was very colourful . The main crowd was at the lower garden where people were under the trees. They cheered us on. Dorset NHS HealthCare Trust and Dorset County Hospital got together. We were given plenty of water and nibbles during the procession. There were lots of support for our community."
Although Weymouth Gay Group did not attend either of the two Prides in Bournemouth (on the same day), we see they were enjoyed by many.
It is getting increasingly expensive for some of our guys who are on a limited or low income to attend. The cost of travel (£20 approx) by train, (and yet AGAIN problems with the trains!!) then £23 to get into Meyrick park, and that's before buying any drinks. So, it is really good we feel that a FREE alternative Pride gathering takes place in the lower gardens on the same day.
(Pride politics aside for a moment!)
Great to see our friends from the NHS in Dorset together for Pride! (pic right)
It is getting increasingly expensive for some of our guys who are on a limited or low income to attend. The cost of travel (£20 approx) by train, (and yet AGAIN problems with the trains!!) then £23 to get into Meyrick park, and that's before buying any drinks. So, it is really good we feel that a FREE alternative Pride gathering takes place in the lower gardens on the same day.
(Pride politics aside for a moment!)
Great to see our friends from the NHS in Dorset together for Pride! (pic right)
48 Photos from Bournemouth Pride 2025 see -
www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25309375.pictures-bourne-free-parade-returns-bournemouth/
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www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25309375.pictures-bourne-free-parade-returns-bournemouth/
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Farewell Juliet (posted here 14/07/2025)
It is with sadness that the Weymouth LGBT+ Community say goodbye to Juliet (moving away to be with family).
She has been the vicar at Weymouth's Holy Trinity Church for the last few years, and has been an angel embracing the local LGBT+ Community. Not only did she embrace and started locally the LGBT OpenTable (worship once a month), she also encouraged the local LGBT+ community to have a Christmas tree at their festival. For some of us, it was the first time we had been into a Church and felt the welcome for a huge number of years.
We are very pleased to hear the Open Table will continue, and wish Juilet all the best for her future.
It is with sadness that the Weymouth LGBT+ Community say goodbye to Juliet (moving away to be with family).
She has been the vicar at Weymouth's Holy Trinity Church for the last few years, and has been an angel embracing the local LGBT+ Community. Not only did she embrace and started locally the LGBT OpenTable (worship once a month), she also encouraged the local LGBT+ community to have a Christmas tree at their festival. For some of us, it was the first time we had been into a Church and felt the welcome for a huge number of years.
We are very pleased to hear the Open Table will continue, and wish Juilet all the best for her future.
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The TWO Prides of Bournemouth!
(posted here 10/07/2025) Excitement mounts ahead of a double Bournemouth Pride weekend. The traditional Bourne Free - Bournemouth Pride, Dorsets biggest annual LGBT+ event returns for its party and stalls in Meyrick Park Bournemouth (Tickets £23). Plus the longest Dorset Pride Parade weaving its way through Bournemouth town center. Back for its second year is Bournemouth Community Pride. An alternative (Free) Pride taking place in the Lower Gardens. Not connected with Bournefree. (see poster right) Links - The TWO Bournemouth Prides Sat 12th July 2025 For more info about these Dorset Prides, check out our Weymouth Gay Group website pages here:- Bournemouth, Bournefree :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html Bournemouth Community Pride lower gardens Bournemouth. Info:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-community-pride.html |
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Sherborne and Bournemouth Prides stage line ups (posted here 05/07/2025)
Sherborne Pride Sunday 6th July A free event!
Bournemouth Pride Friday 11th / Saturday 12th July Saturday Tickets £23
Sherborne Pride Sunday 6th July A free event!
Bournemouth Pride Friday 11th / Saturday 12th July Saturday Tickets £23
Sherborne and Bournemouth Prides
For more info about these Dorset Prides, check out our Weymouth Gay Group website pages here:-
Sherborne:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html
Bournemouth, Bournefree :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
Note, also Bournemouth Community Pride Sat 12th July lower gardens Bournemouth.
Info:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-community-pride.html
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For more info about these Dorset Prides, check out our Weymouth Gay Group website pages here:-
Sherborne:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html
Bournemouth, Bournefree :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
Note, also Bournemouth Community Pride Sat 12th July lower gardens Bournemouth.
Info:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-community-pride.html
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Dorchester Mayor praises Pride events (posted here 04/07/2025)
"I know firsthand how important it is to feel safe and welcome in the place that you live."
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full Echo story here, with photos:- Mayor of Dorchester joins in Pride month celebrations
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25279947.mayor-dorchester-joins-pride-month-celebrations/
The mayor of Dorchester helped to wrap up Pride month celebrations in the town with the unveiling of a new mural at a local pub. Cllr Andy Canning was in attendance as a brand new Pride mural was unveiled at Tom Brown's pub in High West Street. The mural was devised by Lucy Newnham and painted by Lucy and a team of volunteers from the local community.
Cllr Canning said: "Pride Picnic was a joyful family event and it was a pleasure to be part of it. It is really important to me that everyone feels welcome in Dorchester. My own child came out as gay at 18 and then more recently as non-binary, so I know firsthand how important it is to feel safe and welcome in the place that you live. Well done to everyone involved in this happy and positive event."
His child, Alex Canning, came back home to Dorchester as they were really keen to take part in the Pride Picnic. They said: "It made me so happy to experience the lovely Pride here today. Knowing that Dorchester is such a welcoming and inclusive place makes me feel comfortable to be myself and proud to say I grew up here."
Weymouth Gay Group was one of a number of groups with a stall at The Pride Picnic. Is that our Tim in one of the Echo photos!
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"I know firsthand how important it is to feel safe and welcome in the place that you live."
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full Echo story here, with photos:- Mayor of Dorchester joins in Pride month celebrations
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25279947.mayor-dorchester-joins-pride-month-celebrations/
The mayor of Dorchester helped to wrap up Pride month celebrations in the town with the unveiling of a new mural at a local pub. Cllr Andy Canning was in attendance as a brand new Pride mural was unveiled at Tom Brown's pub in High West Street. The mural was devised by Lucy Newnham and painted by Lucy and a team of volunteers from the local community.
Cllr Canning said: "Pride Picnic was a joyful family event and it was a pleasure to be part of it. It is really important to me that everyone feels welcome in Dorchester. My own child came out as gay at 18 and then more recently as non-binary, so I know firsthand how important it is to feel safe and welcome in the place that you live. Well done to everyone involved in this happy and positive event."
His child, Alex Canning, came back home to Dorchester as they were really keen to take part in the Pride Picnic. They said: "It made me so happy to experience the lovely Pride here today. Knowing that Dorchester is such a welcoming and inclusive place makes me feel comfortable to be myself and proud to say I grew up here."
Weymouth Gay Group was one of a number of groups with a stall at The Pride Picnic. Is that our Tim in one of the Echo photos!
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Unique Library helping Portland LGBTQ+ community (posted here 03/07/2025)
(image left from Tiny Library website)
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story with photos here:-
Library on Portland dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ community
www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25273299.library-portland-dedicated-helping-lgbtq-community/
A friend of Weymouth Gay Group and an activist for the LGBTQ+ community who founded the only library dedicated to queer literature in Portland, says it is vital people see themselves represented.
The Dorset Echo reported......
Natasha Wilding, a volunteer at B-side, set up The Tiny Little Library in Fortuneswell, after saying there was a need for a safe space for the community. The underground library, located in the B-side Outpost, holds roughly 100 queer resources including books on activism, biographies of famous LGBTQ+ figures and fiction.
The idea of the library was born out of one book donation and has grown into an inclusive space with self-help books for people to who may not feel comfortable in a commercial library or around other people. Initially the space was not advertised anywhere when it opened in February, but now the volunteers want to reach a wider audience while maintaining the intimate, inclusive atmosphere.
Natasha, who is a trans woman, said: “When I grew up, I didn’t have the resources so I was really lonely. I thought I was the only person in the world with these feelings and [resources] really would’ve helped me understand who I was.”
Natasha said: “It is very lonely when you think you are the only one. And until being queer is completely normalised, we are always going to be the outcasts. People ned to see themselves reflected.”
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group helped with the start of the Library, when we were offered a collection of Lesbian books! We suggested that b-side Arts might be a better home, and bingo the library idea started!
Links / info:-
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story with photos here:- Library on Portland dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ community
www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25273299.library-portland-dedicated-helping-lgbtq-community/
Opening times:- Tuesdays, Thursdays 3pm - 6pm, and Saturdays 1pm - 3pm.
More info - little.tinylibrary.co.uk/
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(image left from Tiny Library website)
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story with photos here:-
Library on Portland dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ community
www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25273299.library-portland-dedicated-helping-lgbtq-community/
A friend of Weymouth Gay Group and an activist for the LGBTQ+ community who founded the only library dedicated to queer literature in Portland, says it is vital people see themselves represented.
The Dorset Echo reported......
Natasha Wilding, a volunteer at B-side, set up The Tiny Little Library in Fortuneswell, after saying there was a need for a safe space for the community. The underground library, located in the B-side Outpost, holds roughly 100 queer resources including books on activism, biographies of famous LGBTQ+ figures and fiction.
The idea of the library was born out of one book donation and has grown into an inclusive space with self-help books for people to who may not feel comfortable in a commercial library or around other people. Initially the space was not advertised anywhere when it opened in February, but now the volunteers want to reach a wider audience while maintaining the intimate, inclusive atmosphere.
Natasha, who is a trans woman, said: “When I grew up, I didn’t have the resources so I was really lonely. I thought I was the only person in the world with these feelings and [resources] really would’ve helped me understand who I was.”
Natasha said: “It is very lonely when you think you are the only one. And until being queer is completely normalised, we are always going to be the outcasts. People ned to see themselves reflected.”
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group helped with the start of the Library, when we were offered a collection of Lesbian books! We suggested that b-side Arts might be a better home, and bingo the library idea started!
Links / info:-
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story with photos here:- Library on Portland dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ community
www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25273299.library-portland-dedicated-helping-lgbtq-community/
Opening times:- Tuesdays, Thursdays 3pm - 6pm, and Saturdays 1pm - 3pm.
More info - little.tinylibrary.co.uk/
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Wag - a - wonderful Pride! (posted here 03/07/2025)
Weymouth Gay Group guys and friends recently enjoyed a Meals Out On Mondays at Dorchester's Wagamama! The event, part of Dorchester Pop Up Pride 2025, was one of many running during Pride month in Dorchester. |
These wonderful place mats greeted all Ten of us who enjoyed the Meal Out
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It was so wonderful to meet new people, inculding those from Jurassic Pride and also the Weymouth Gay Womens Group.
Huge thanks to Adam (manager) and his Wagamama team for making everyone feel so welcomed. Love the place mats! (photo above, detail on left. Click to enlarge)
Thank you Wagamama for our goodies bags & discount tokens
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Wonderful to have a rainbow welcome!
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Yum .....
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..... Yum ....
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...... Yummy!
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Oh! Did you miss this beautiful Meals Out On Monday? Its been suggested we should run it again in 2026. But dont wait that long, as Weymouth Gay Group have weekly Meals Out on Thursdays for ALL to enjoy at a variety of venues.
See you soon! https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/wgg-events.html
The Weymouth Gay Womens Group also have meals out in the Weymouth area info - www.facebook.com/groups/1280567109276343
Jurassic Pride run social events in the Bridport area info:- https://jurassicpride.co.uk/
See you soon! https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/wgg-events.html
The Weymouth Gay Womens Group also have meals out in the Weymouth area info - www.facebook.com/groups/1280567109276343
Jurassic Pride run social events in the Bridport area info:- https://jurassicpride.co.uk/
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Dorchester Library LGBT+ display (posted here 03/07/2025)
On a recent visit to Dorchester, it was so good to pop into the Library there. They have had a LGBT+ display on during Pride month. Although an effort to find it on top floor, its good that it was there. We added a few of our WGG leafets, to err ... help spread the LGBT+ love! Huge thanks to all the staff there for making this possible |
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Our Groups helplines poster gets coverage in Dorset Echo! (posted here 30/06/2025)
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"LGBT+ campaign launched in GP surgeries across Dorset" The Weymouth Gay Group's helplines poster campaign is featured in The Dorset Echo, on the last day of June. "Feeling like the iceing on the cake" said a groups spokesperson! The poster is on view in many local GP sergeries. Scroll down this page for more about this. "Our Helplines poster gets national and local support" |
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Links:-
Dorset Echo:- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25260691.lgbt-campaign-launched-gp-surgeries-across-dorset/
You can view the helplines page here, and download a copy of the poster:-
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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Dorset Echo:- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25260691.lgbt-campaign-launched-gp-surgeries-across-dorset/
You can view the helplines page here, and download a copy of the poster:-
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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Chesil Youth Pride 2025 - report part one - Weymouth College
(posted here 28/06/2025) Safe places and sowing the seed
The College again became a glorious coulorful location for the third Chesil Youth Pride.
Chesil Youth Pride was created after the council received feedback from young people, saying that they felt unsafe in their communities and that they wanted a ‘safe space’ to be themselves.
Their was a brilliant selection of stalls, info, and activities for young people. Great to see so many from our "family" of Dorset LGBT+ Community groups and organisations. Also good to meet again our MP, Llyold Hatton and chat LGBT+.
Dorset Council along with the Library service, both with stalls, have recently lauched "Safe Space Charter" for LGBT+ young people. Great idea.
(posted here 28/06/2025) Safe places and sowing the seed
The College again became a glorious coulorful location for the third Chesil Youth Pride.
Chesil Youth Pride was created after the council received feedback from young people, saying that they felt unsafe in their communities and that they wanted a ‘safe space’ to be themselves.
Their was a brilliant selection of stalls, info, and activities for young people. Great to see so many from our "family" of Dorset LGBT+ Community groups and organisations. Also good to meet again our MP, Llyold Hatton and chat LGBT+.
Dorset Council along with the Library service, both with stalls, have recently lauched "Safe Space Charter" for LGBT+ young people. Great idea.
Chesil Youth Pride 2025 - report part two - The Parade
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A beautiful sunny afternoon welcomed the Chesil Youth Pride Parade along Weymouth's Esplanade.
We, Weymouth Gay Group popped up our flags at The Jubilee Clock, and cheered the Parade passing by. This has become an annual event in Weymouth, and if you missed it this year, dont in 2026! Photo left, our group's friend Mel - and her husband. Aka Mayor and Mayoress Dorchester! |
We have received a few questions about Chesil Youth Pride. You can see them and our answers here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/chesil-youth-pride.html
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Battery set to host torchlit photo exhibition
- with illumination from Portland LGBT+ side! (posted here 26/06/2025)
The Portland based B - side Arts along with its LGBT+ Side group are running a unique art experience!
The BBC recently (26/06/2025) reported:-
A torchlit photography exhibition exploring themes of otherness, the marginal and the overlooked is set to open at a historic military site.
Portland's High Angle Battery is the setting for the exhibition, which has been co-curated by b-side, a Dorset-based arts organisation.
An LGBT+ side group b-side helped set up and British-Israeli artist Gil Mualem-Doron have also helped to coordinate it and they appealed for submissions from around the world. The exhibition, which showcases work from 21 international artists.
"If you can't see people's lives you'll never know they existed but you'll also never recognise the positive contribution that difference makes to our lives," Rocca Holly-Nambi, from b-side, said. "Being seen is to know you're alive. To see yourself in artworks – and they might not be your art – reflected back at you makes you know that you matter and that you exist."
The exhibition will be running 26 - 29 June 11:00 am - 6:00 pm More info see:-
Links:-
b-side Arts - https://b-side.org.uk/events/underground-gallery/
BBC - www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce3n4jqvepno
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- with illumination from Portland LGBT+ side! (posted here 26/06/2025)
The Portland based B - side Arts along with its LGBT+ Side group are running a unique art experience!
The BBC recently (26/06/2025) reported:-
A torchlit photography exhibition exploring themes of otherness, the marginal and the overlooked is set to open at a historic military site.
Portland's High Angle Battery is the setting for the exhibition, which has been co-curated by b-side, a Dorset-based arts organisation.
An LGBT+ side group b-side helped set up and British-Israeli artist Gil Mualem-Doron have also helped to coordinate it and they appealed for submissions from around the world. The exhibition, which showcases work from 21 international artists.
"If you can't see people's lives you'll never know they existed but you'll also never recognise the positive contribution that difference makes to our lives," Rocca Holly-Nambi, from b-side, said. "Being seen is to know you're alive. To see yourself in artworks – and they might not be your art – reflected back at you makes you know that you matter and that you exist."
The exhibition will be running 26 - 29 June 11:00 am - 6:00 pm More info see:-
Links:-
b-side Arts - https://b-side.org.uk/events/underground-gallery/
BBC - www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce3n4jqvepno
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Pride in Weymouth Shop windows (posted here 26/06/2025)
It is so wonderful to see high street shops embracing our community during Pride month.
Of note this year is The Heart Foundation in St Marys Street, also The Artisan shop and Weldamier in St Thomas street. Plus Marks and Spencers. Oh, and dont forget to check out Weymouth Post Office with the wonderful Vicky and the rainbow gifts and our WGG beer mats and leaflets!
Have you seen other local shops worthy of promotion here? If so please do email us - [email protected]
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It is so wonderful to see high street shops embracing our community during Pride month.
Of note this year is The Heart Foundation in St Marys Street, also The Artisan shop and Weldamier in St Thomas street. Plus Marks and Spencers. Oh, and dont forget to check out Weymouth Post Office with the wonderful Vicky and the rainbow gifts and our WGG beer mats and leaflets!
Have you seen other local shops worthy of promotion here? If so please do email us - [email protected]
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Dorchester Pop Up Pride - Pride Picnic in the Park (posted here 23/06/2025)
This was a beautiful "Pride Picnic in the Park" event, with a wonderful community atmosphere. Plus it's always great to network with all the other groups at all the different Pride events in Dorset like this one. Great to see so many friends there, including our Tony & Mervin. Plus meeting and chatting with the very supportive new Dorcherster Mayor and Mayoress (our friend Mel!). Huge thanks to our Tim, who helped not only by maning our WGG info stall, but also carry our kit from the station and back. Thanks also to Dorchester Town Council's Emma for organising it all, including our essential gazebo (and table) on one of the hottest days of the year!
Don't forget that Dorchester Pop Up Pride runs all month with lots of events, including our Meals Out On Mondays with WGG at Wagamamas in Dorcherster on Monday 30th June! Please join all of us (limited seats) book your place now with us email [email protected]
A few photos below from The Dorchester Pop Up Pride Picnic ...
This was a beautiful "Pride Picnic in the Park" event, with a wonderful community atmosphere. Plus it's always great to network with all the other groups at all the different Pride events in Dorset like this one. Great to see so many friends there, including our Tony & Mervin. Plus meeting and chatting with the very supportive new Dorcherster Mayor and Mayoress (our friend Mel!). Huge thanks to our Tim, who helped not only by maning our WGG info stall, but also carry our kit from the station and back. Thanks also to Dorchester Town Council's Emma for organising it all, including our essential gazebo (and table) on one of the hottest days of the year!
Don't forget that Dorchester Pop Up Pride runs all month with lots of events, including our Meals Out On Mondays with WGG at Wagamamas in Dorcherster on Monday 30th June! Please join all of us (limited seats) book your place now with us email [email protected]
A few photos below from The Dorchester Pop Up Pride Picnic ...
Brill tunes from Vinyl Van!
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Our WGG info stall
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Space Youth Project
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Great to meet new groups!
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Pop & Olly - stall
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Our WGG mascot!
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Chesil Youth Pride Sat 28th - up dates (posted here 23/06/2025)
Parade along Weymouths Esplanade!
Parade along Weymouths Esplanade!
Chesil Youth Pride, back for its third year, is expecting a record turn out this coming weekend!
This Pride event is very much a Young People's Pride, offering lots of support and activities on the day.
With a range of activities and support at Weymouth College from midday, and the highlight for many, the Parade along Weymouths Esplanade.
Please note:-
Adults wishing to join the 2025 Parade should gather at The Jubilee Clock from 4pm, and are most welcomed to join the end of the parade, heading to The Pavilion for a 5/6pm finish.
Esplanade Hotels & Guest houses are encouraged to display Rainbow Pride flags, which have already been given out to many. Cafes and bars wishing to have a supply of our Beer Mats / Coffee table mats please contact [email protected]
They have recently published a couple of posters about their event. (Click on them below to enlarge)
More info see our Chesil Pride page which also has reports from past years: - htmlweymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/chesil-youth-pride.html
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Chesil Youth Pride Weymouth College site plan 2025. Click on pic to enlarge
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Family theme announced for youth Pride event
extract from BBC news story (23/06/2025)
A Pride event for young people from the LGBTQ+ community is set to have a "we are family" theme, organisers have said.
Chesil Youth Pride is returning for its third year in Weymouth on Saturday. It will start at 12:00 BST at Weymouth College and feature live music, creative activities and a parade along the Esplanade. Last year more than 200 young people attended with their families and friends. James, 16, from Weymouth said: "Chesil Youth Pride is such an important event to me and others, because it makes people closer to each other. It brings a community of very similar people together. "Every year is different but always awesome."
You can read the full, very good artical about Chesil Youth Pride on the BBC website here: www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx20y38nv5eo
extract from BBC news story (23/06/2025)
A Pride event for young people from the LGBTQ+ community is set to have a "we are family" theme, organisers have said.
Chesil Youth Pride is returning for its third year in Weymouth on Saturday. It will start at 12:00 BST at Weymouth College and feature live music, creative activities and a parade along the Esplanade. Last year more than 200 young people attended with their families and friends. James, 16, from Weymouth said: "Chesil Youth Pride is such an important event to me and others, because it makes people closer to each other. It brings a community of very similar people together. "Every year is different but always awesome."
You can read the full, very good artical about Chesil Youth Pride on the BBC website here: www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx20y38nv5eo
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Record number of events for Pride month! (19/06/2025)
Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) have always been keen to help promote all the local LGBT+ community events going on in Dorset.
We do this on THE DORSET LGBT+ COMMUNITY EVENTS DIARY page.
In the past when we started this page, we listed around 25 /30 local events each month.
Now - Lets celebrate! We have listed around 240 events over May, June & July this year!
With Pride month June, offering almost 100 local LGBT+ Community events! We say, Join in and Enjoy! Lets rejoice that so much is going on!
You can see the Dorset LGBT+ Community Events diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) have always been keen to help promote all the local LGBT+ community events going on in Dorset.
We do this on THE DORSET LGBT+ COMMUNITY EVENTS DIARY page.
In the past when we started this page, we listed around 25 /30 local events each month.
Now - Lets celebrate! We have listed around 240 events over May, June & July this year!
With Pride month June, offering almost 100 local LGBT+ Community events! We say, Join in and Enjoy! Lets rejoice that so much is going on!
You can see the Dorset LGBT+ Community Events diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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Our Helplines poster gets national and local support (posted here 19/06/2025)
A poster produced by Weymouth Gay Group to help promote helplines during Pride month has received a lot of support both locally and nationally. In a press release to local media a spokesperson for WGG said:-
A poster produced by Weymouth Gay Group to help promote helplines during Pride month has received a lot of support both locally and nationally. In a press release to local media a spokesperson for WGG said:-
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The NHS locally in Dorset and Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) have come together to signpost help and support for LGBT+ people with a new poster displayed on tv screens in Weymouth, Portland & Dorchester GP surgeries.
June is Pride month and an occasion when the LGBT+ Community gather to protest, celebrate, and enjoy Pride events. A Weymouth Gay Group spokesperson said “However, not everyone in the LGBT+ community may feel like joining the party. Life can throw all sorts of problems and issues our way however you identify. Some can be very specific to our community” (photo right at - Crescent Surgery Park District Weymouth. Note our poster bottom right, and also Space Youth Project poster) |
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They added “So we have always been keen to have a website page listing lots of local and national support on our popular website. It lists a variety of organisations offering help and support not only with health care, but also hate crime, relationships, bereavement, transgender & gender diverse, plus sections for both younger and older LGBT+ people. We are very keen to promote this resource and really appreciate the assistance from Jim Gammans and his NHS team with all their help to spread the word. (poster on left) |
The posters can be viewed on tv screens in many local GP surgeries with some having printed copies on show or available.
The initiative has also received support from the National LGBT+ Consortium who support LGBT+ groups and organisations, of which Weymouth Gay Group is a member.
(See - https://www.consortium.lgbt/2025/06/19/helplines-poster-on-gp-surgery-screens/ )
You can view the helplines page here, and download a copy of the poster.
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
HUGE thanks to Phil in WGG with his help and support with this.
See also Dorset Echo story (30/06/2025) - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25260691.lgbt-campaign-launched-gp-surgeries-across-dorset/
The National LGBT+ Consortium also reported this story. See:- https://www.consortium.lgbt/2025/06/19/helplines-poster-on-gp-surgery-screens/
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The initiative has also received support from the National LGBT+ Consortium who support LGBT+ groups and organisations, of which Weymouth Gay Group is a member.
(See - https://www.consortium.lgbt/2025/06/19/helplines-poster-on-gp-surgery-screens/ )
You can view the helplines page here, and download a copy of the poster.
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
HUGE thanks to Phil in WGG with his help and support with this.
See also Dorset Echo story (30/06/2025) - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25260691.lgbt-campaign-launched-gp-surgeries-across-dorset/
The National LGBT+ Consortium also reported this story. See:- https://www.consortium.lgbt/2025/06/19/helplines-poster-on-gp-surgery-screens/
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Growing up Gay in Bridport - Musician speeks out & sings at Arts Center
(Posted here 16/06/2025)
Extract form Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25240703.musician-douglas-dare-growing-gay-bridport/
Douglas Dare, an internationally renowned artist with four studio albums under his belt, has just performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London, but had very humble beginnings growing up in Bridport.
Douglas, 35, said he was surrounded by eccentricity in Bridport and had very accepting parents. He would often opt for clothes different to his brothers, including a pink tutu he would wear around the dairy farm as a child, but did not feel he could come out living in a small town.
“Even though my parents are performers and are generous, lovely people, being queer was not something that was celebrated in Bridport when I was growing up,” he said.
“When I heard Queer in the Countryside was going on I first thought – this wouldn’t have happened when I was younger. But I thought as well, if there are young queer people seeing this happening in their hometown then they will feel there is somewhere for them.
Douglas will be performing on Saturday, June 21 at 7.30pm at Bridport Arts Centre.
Links:-
Extract form Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25240703.musician-douglas-dare-growing-gay-bridport/
More info / Tickets Bridport Arts - www.bridport-arts.com/event/douglas-dare/
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(Posted here 16/06/2025)
Extract form Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25240703.musician-douglas-dare-growing-gay-bridport/
Douglas Dare, an internationally renowned artist with four studio albums under his belt, has just performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London, but had very humble beginnings growing up in Bridport.
Douglas, 35, said he was surrounded by eccentricity in Bridport and had very accepting parents. He would often opt for clothes different to his brothers, including a pink tutu he would wear around the dairy farm as a child, but did not feel he could come out living in a small town.
“Even though my parents are performers and are generous, lovely people, being queer was not something that was celebrated in Bridport when I was growing up,” he said.
“When I heard Queer in the Countryside was going on I first thought – this wouldn’t have happened when I was younger. But I thought as well, if there are young queer people seeing this happening in their hometown then they will feel there is somewhere for them.
Douglas will be performing on Saturday, June 21 at 7.30pm at Bridport Arts Centre.
Links:-
Extract form Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25240703.musician-douglas-dare-growing-gay-bridport/
More info / Tickets Bridport Arts - www.bridport-arts.com/event/douglas-dare/
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The London Boys are back! - Chesil Rocks (posted here 14/06/205)
The brilliant boys from The London Gay Mens chorus are back in Weymouth supporting Chesil Rocks.
Chesil Rocks has been running for many years, raising funds for The Samaritins locally. The London Gay Mens Chorus have been an annual highlight, a group not to miss!
The brilliant boys from The London Gay Mens chorus are back in Weymouth supporting Chesil Rocks.
Chesil Rocks has been running for many years, raising funds for The Samaritins locally. The London Gay Mens Chorus have been an annual highlight, a group not to miss!
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They will be on stage as part of Chesil Rocks taking place at Weymouth Pavilion on 21st June. Links:- Chesil Rocks website https://www.chesilrocks.com/ London Gay Mens Chorus https://www.lgmc.org.uk/ Tickets /info - Weymouth Pavilion https://weymouthpavilion.com/shows/chesil-rocks/ |
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Jurassic Pride:- Queer Socials & Gender Neutral Loos Map! (posted here 11/06/2025)
The new Bridport area Jurassic Pride have got off the ground running! Although not running a Pride event - yet, they have become a CIC and started some great community initiatives.
The new Bridport area Jurassic Pride have got off the ground running! Although not running a Pride event - yet, they have become a CIC and started some great community initiatives.
As well as their monthly Queer Socials in Bridport, they have started a Gender Neutral Loos Map! (on right).
Great idea, highlighting safe spaces particularly for the Transgender community in and beyond Dorset. They are also appealing for help adding more loos to the map. They also have a website coming soon, and you can sign up for newsletters to be kept informed about their events. Weymouth Gay Group welcomes Jurassic Pride to the Dorset LGBT+ Community, and wishes them well. It's great to welcome new groups that are pro active supporting our local community. |
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Links:- Linktree:- linktr.ee/JurassicPride Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/jurassicpride.bsky.social email - [email protected]
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Poetry evening launches Pop Up Pride in Dorchester (posted here 11/06/2025)
Extract from Dorset Echo 10/06/2025. You can read the full story, with photos, here:- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25224514.dorchester-pride-kicks-off-poetry-evening-vinyl-van/
To kick off the month-long celebration of LGBT+ history, an evening of poetry reading was held at the Vinyl Van in Dorchester, to raise money for the local LGBT+ community groups.
The Proud Poems event, organised by Naomi Wilcox-Lee, saw 17 local poets take to the stage to share emotive pieces of work inspired by their own experiences as part of the LGBT+ community.
Speaking about the first event, Naomi said: “The world can feel quite unforgiving for LGBTQ+ people at times, especially recently. It's so important that we create safe spaces like this where everyone feels they belong, and poetry has such a magic way of bringing people together.” The creative evening saw 50 people turn out to hear the stories from local people and raised £100 for Space Youth Project.
Links:-
Extract from Dorset Echo 10/06/2025. You can read the full story, with photos, here:- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25224514.dorchester-pride-kicks-off-poetry-evening-vinyl-van/
Pop Up Pride Dorchester info:- https://discoverdorchester.co.uk/pop-up-pride-dorchester/ and https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pop-up-pride.html
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Extract from Dorset Echo 10/06/2025. You can read the full story, with photos, here:- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25224514.dorchester-pride-kicks-off-poetry-evening-vinyl-van/
To kick off the month-long celebration of LGBT+ history, an evening of poetry reading was held at the Vinyl Van in Dorchester, to raise money for the local LGBT+ community groups.
The Proud Poems event, organised by Naomi Wilcox-Lee, saw 17 local poets take to the stage to share emotive pieces of work inspired by their own experiences as part of the LGBT+ community.
Speaking about the first event, Naomi said: “The world can feel quite unforgiving for LGBTQ+ people at times, especially recently. It's so important that we create safe spaces like this where everyone feels they belong, and poetry has such a magic way of bringing people together.” The creative evening saw 50 people turn out to hear the stories from local people and raised £100 for Space Youth Project.
Links:-
Extract from Dorset Echo 10/06/2025. You can read the full story, with photos, here:- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25224514.dorchester-pride-kicks-off-poetry-evening-vinyl-van/
Pop Up Pride Dorchester info:- https://discoverdorchester.co.uk/pop-up-pride-dorchester/ and https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pop-up-pride.html
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Bridport Bookshop - LGBT+ window display (posted here 11/06/2025)
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The Book Shop in Bridport has put on a brill display of LGBT+ books for Pride month. Their effort was recently highlighted by the new Jurassic Pride, who said on Bluesky:- "Absolutely loving this pride display from @thebookshop.bsky.social! A brilliant mix of fiction, non-fiction, folk-tales, crafts and kids books. Do check them out if you get the chance! #shoplocal #queerliterature #representationmatters " Links:- Jurassic Pride Blue Sky:- @jurassicpride.bsky.social The Book Shop Bridport Bluesky:- @thebookshop.bsky.social The Book Shop Bridport. Website:- https://www.dorsetbooks.com/ The Book Shop Bridport 14 South St, Bridport DT6 3NQ 01308 422964 |
Photo:- The Book Shop Bridport, with thanks to Jurassic Pride.
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LGBTQ+ Active Bournemouth (posted here 11/06/2025)
One of the many great reasons why we have Pride is networking. We Weymouth Gay Group were thrilled to meet these Bournemouth Active guys at Poole Pride!
(More Poole Pride photos and report below)
One of the many great reasons why we have Pride is networking. We Weymouth Gay Group were thrilled to meet these Bournemouth Active guys at Poole Pride!
(More Poole Pride photos and report below)
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Poole Pride 2025 - pics & report (posted here 09/06/2025 updated photos 11/06/2025)
This Pride event is so welcomed in the annual "must attend" events …
Taking place at Poole Lighthouse Arts venue, for its second year, it did not disappoint with both a huge range of events (e.g. film nights) before the day, and lots of activities and stalls to enjoy on the day.
We had our Weymouth Gay Group info stall there, and our competition to guess the number of Dorset LGBT+ community events gave many a huge surprise!
A big advantage being inside, is that visitors and stallholders did not suffer the enormous rain storm outside! The day was very well attened, with a constant stream of people passing our stall.
Organisers said they noticed an uptick in the number of people compared to last year. “There’s been a lot of familiar faces that we’ve seen from previous years but loads and loads of new faces,”
Huge thanks to all the staff at The Lighthouse for helping to make this such a wonderful event again!
Oh, did you miss it? Well don't in 2026!
Bournemouth Echo has a report about Poole Pride 2025 here:- https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25225593.poole-pride-returned-lighthouse-theatre-2024-event/ (we notice they have the year wrong!)
Info about all the SEVEN 2025 Dorset Prides see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
Arts University Bournemouth exhibit at Poole Pride - (extract from Bournemouth Echo 05/06/2025)
Curated by queer illustrator Sarah Cliff, the exhibition will feature works by students, celebrating Pride through art. As part of the celebrations, the students will host a badge-making workshop. Sarah said: "Historically, button badges have been used throughout Pride events as an affordable means for individuals to protest, demonstrate solidarity, or identify with various groups.
This exhibition is running through out June at The Lighthouse Poole.
More see - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25213505.aub-illustration-department-exhibit-poole-pride/
This Pride event is so welcomed in the annual "must attend" events …
Taking place at Poole Lighthouse Arts venue, for its second year, it did not disappoint with both a huge range of events (e.g. film nights) before the day, and lots of activities and stalls to enjoy on the day.
We had our Weymouth Gay Group info stall there, and our competition to guess the number of Dorset LGBT+ community events gave many a huge surprise!
A big advantage being inside, is that visitors and stallholders did not suffer the enormous rain storm outside! The day was very well attened, with a constant stream of people passing our stall.
Organisers said they noticed an uptick in the number of people compared to last year. “There’s been a lot of familiar faces that we’ve seen from previous years but loads and loads of new faces,”
Huge thanks to all the staff at The Lighthouse for helping to make this such a wonderful event again!
Oh, did you miss it? Well don't in 2026!
Bournemouth Echo has a report about Poole Pride 2025 here:- https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25225593.poole-pride-returned-lighthouse-theatre-2024-event/ (we notice they have the year wrong!)
Info about all the SEVEN 2025 Dorset Prides see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
Arts University Bournemouth exhibit at Poole Pride - (extract from Bournemouth Echo 05/06/2025)
Curated by queer illustrator Sarah Cliff, the exhibition will feature works by students, celebrating Pride through art. As part of the celebrations, the students will host a badge-making workshop. Sarah said: "Historically, button badges have been used throughout Pride events as an affordable means for individuals to protest, demonstrate solidarity, or identify with various groups.
This exhibition is running through out June at The Lighthouse Poole.
More see - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25213505.aub-illustration-department-exhibit-poole-pride/
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Pub Pride in Dorset 2025 - goes flat again! (posted on our Pride page & here 09/06/2025)
Sadly again Pub Pride in Dorset in 2025 was a flat event! Despite one Weymouth Pub venue being listed on the national Pub Pride map, nothing happened (as far as we know). Weymouth Gay Group contacted The Wyke Smugglers, but did not get a reply to our email. This is a great shame, as Pub Pride is such a brilliant way to welcome in Pride month, and embrace diversity and inclusion at YOUR local. With Weymouth, Portland, Dorchester and Bridport having many suitable supportive venues, surprisingly none took part in Pub Pride 2025.
Note:- We have suggested this to Weymouth's Dry Dock (non alcohol pub), but while they are very LGBT+ friendly, they have not come back to us about organising their own Pub Pride event.
More about Pub Pride, incl past Dorset venues see:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorset-pub-prides.html
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Sadly again Pub Pride in Dorset in 2025 was a flat event! Despite one Weymouth Pub venue being listed on the national Pub Pride map, nothing happened (as far as we know). Weymouth Gay Group contacted The Wyke Smugglers, but did not get a reply to our email. This is a great shame, as Pub Pride is such a brilliant way to welcome in Pride month, and embrace diversity and inclusion at YOUR local. With Weymouth, Portland, Dorchester and Bridport having many suitable supportive venues, surprisingly none took part in Pub Pride 2025.
Note:- We have suggested this to Weymouth's Dry Dock (non alcohol pub), but while they are very LGBT+ friendly, they have not come back to us about organising their own Pub Pride event.
More about Pub Pride, incl past Dorset venues see:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorset-pub-prides.html
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Rainbows on Weymouth Esplanade! (Posted here 05/06/2025 update 12/06/2025)
With Pride month well under way, Weymouth's popular Esplanade is embracing the rainbows!
With Pride month well under way, Weymouth's popular Esplanade is embracing the rainbows!
Weymouth Beach Office
Note:- Not to miss is The Pride Parade along Weymouth's Esplanade, part of Chesil Youth Pride. Leaving Weymouth College at around 4.30pm and heading to the Pavilion for a 6pm finish. Join in, or cheer them along on Saturday June 28th. Info stalls and lots of activities at Weymouth College from 12 noon. More info - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/chesil-youth-pride.html |
As part of the 2025 Jubilee Clock Light Up Scheme, Weymouth Town Council has chosen to light the face of the Jubilee clock in rainbow colours, to represent Space Youth Project! Look out for the colourful change from 23rd-30th June |
Update 12/06/2025. Watch out for the Hotels, Guest Houses and B&Bs along the sea front displaying Rainbow flags! We hear that many of them are happy to do so for Chesil Pride! Brill!
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New LGBT+ Helplines poster for Pride month -
The NHS locally and Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) have come together to help signpost support for LGBT+ people with a new poster displayed in Weymouth & Dorchester GP surgeries. June is Pride month and an occasion when the LGBT+ Community gather to protest, celebrate, and enjoy Pride events. WGG said “However, not everyone in the LGBT+ community may feel like joining the party. Life can throw all sorts of problems and issues our way however you identify. Some can be very specific to our community” said a Weymouth Gay Group spokesperson. They added “So we have always been keen to have a page listing lots of local and national support on our popular website. It lists a variety of organisations offering help and support not only with health care, but also hate crime, relationships, bereavement, transgender & gender diverse, plus sections for both younger and older LGBT+ people. We are keen to promote this resource and really appreciate the assistance from Jim Gammans, NHS Community Engagement Officer and his NHS team with all their help to spread the word. |
- outreach with NHS (Posted here 05/06/2025)
Helplines & Support Groups. Not everyone in our community will be looking forward to Pride month .... While others party & protest, some may have lost a loved one or be struggling with a range of personal things .... Weymouth Gay Group have produced a new poster (below), highlighting the help & support available especially here in Dorset. 
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The posters can be viewed on tv screens in many local GP surgeries with some having printed copies available.
You can view our Weymouth Gay Group helplines page here, https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Please help by displaying a copy of the poster, and sharing with your online networks.
You can view our Weymouth Gay Group helplines page here, https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Please help by displaying a copy of the poster, and sharing with your online networks.
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You can download a copy of the poster here:-
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Pop Up Pride Dorchester - details released (posted here 14/05/2025, updated 30/05/2025)
Dorchester celebrates Pride month with a month long assortment of events. Pride Picnic, Pride Poems, Meals Out on Monday - at Wagamama! - and lots more!
Lots of info see:- https://discoverdorchester.co.uk/pop-up-pride-dorchester/
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Marvellous Mel in Mayoress role! (posted here 24/05/2025)
Dorchesters Mel Lane has added a new bow to her strings, becoming the new Mayoress for Dorchester! This is on top of her other roles as Head of Education at both Pop'n Olly & Space Youth Project. She is also a teacher trainer, and visits many schools promoting diversity and inclusion. Another string to her bow that you may not be aware of is her role with UNICEF. She is also a UNICEF schools assessor! A LGBT+ SuperGirl! LOL !
In a recent news story in The Dorset Echo (21st May) they reported:-
"Three charities have been chosen for the year – the Parkinson’s weekly dance group, which Cllr Canning is a member of; the Space Youth Project, a local charity for young LGBT+ people which Mrs Canning (Aka Mel) has volunteered with over seven years; and the Dorchester Disabled Club, which holds regular social evenings and trips out."
Dorchesters Mel Lane has added a new bow to her strings, becoming the new Mayoress for Dorchester! This is on top of her other roles as Head of Education at both Pop'n Olly & Space Youth Project. She is also a teacher trainer, and visits many schools promoting diversity and inclusion. Another string to her bow that you may not be aware of is her role with UNICEF. She is also a UNICEF schools assessor! A LGBT+ SuperGirl! LOL !
In a recent news story in The Dorset Echo (21st May) they reported:-
"Three charities have been chosen for the year – the Parkinson’s weekly dance group, which Cllr Canning is a member of; the Space Youth Project, a local charity for young LGBT+ people which Mrs Canning (Aka Mel) has volunteered with over seven years; and the Dorchester Disabled Club, which holds regular social evenings and trips out."
In a post on social media, the new Mayor, Andy Canning and Mayoress both expanded on this saying how Dorchester is welcoming and inclusive adding "Everyone is welcome here". They added - "We are supporting Space Youth Project a local charity for young LGBT+ people. Space provides youth groups across Dorset and we will be particualy supporting the Dorchester one this year. My wife has volunteered with Space for 7 years now and we know how important it is for young LGBT+ people to have somewhere they can go where they can be themselves, socilise with others and have help and support from trianed adults."
They also said at a recent meeting:-
"We had lots of really positive comments on the evening about our choices. One person said how great it was to hear us talk about LGBTQ+ inclusion at such an event and several others shared stories about family members, including people who had benefitted from Space. We are really looking forward to meeting lots of people and talking to them about their ideas for making the town the best it can be."
Note:- You can meet The Marvellous Mayoress Mel at The Pride Picnic in Dorchester, part of Dorchester Pop Up Pride on Saturday 21st June in The Borough Gardens Dorchester with her Pop n Olly info stall, and find out more about diversity and inclusion in Schools.
Note:- Space Youth Project meets up in many Dorset towns, including Weymouth, Bridport, Dorchester, Sherborne and over in the Bournemouth & Poole area and is free for young people under 25 to attend.
Links:-
Space Youth Project - www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk
Pop n Olly - https://www.popnolly.com/
Dorchester Pop Up Pride - Weymouth Gay Group Pride page - htmlweymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pop-up-pride.html
Dorset Echo - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25176776.new-dorchester-mayor-pledges-fight-3-500-home-development/
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They also said at a recent meeting:-
"We had lots of really positive comments on the evening about our choices. One person said how great it was to hear us talk about LGBTQ+ inclusion at such an event and several others shared stories about family members, including people who had benefitted from Space. We are really looking forward to meeting lots of people and talking to them about their ideas for making the town the best it can be."
Note:- You can meet The Marvellous Mayoress Mel at The Pride Picnic in Dorchester, part of Dorchester Pop Up Pride on Saturday 21st June in The Borough Gardens Dorchester with her Pop n Olly info stall, and find out more about diversity and inclusion in Schools.
Note:- Space Youth Project meets up in many Dorset towns, including Weymouth, Bridport, Dorchester, Sherborne and over in the Bournemouth & Poole area and is free for young people under 25 to attend.
Links:-
Space Youth Project - www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk
Pop n Olly - https://www.popnolly.com/
Dorchester Pop Up Pride - Weymouth Gay Group Pride page - htmlweymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pop-up-pride.html
Dorset Echo - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25176776.new-dorchester-mayor-pledges-fight-3-500-home-development/
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NEW! In Bridport Jurassic Pride (posted here 19/05/2025)
Monthly Queer Social 7- 9pm Tuesday 17th June
Beach & Barnicott 6 South St, Bridport DT6 3NQ
In an email to Weymouth Gay Group, Jurassic Pride said ... We are trying to set up a new Queer Group in Bridport :). I'm starting off with some gentle socials in a pub to gauge interest and see how it goes.
More info email [email protected]
(Click on poster left to enlarge)
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Convenient posters! (posted here 19/05/2025)
With HUGE thanks to Weymouth Town Council (esp Charlotte) you can now see a couple of our LGBT+ & Pride posters here!
Displayed by the esplanades beach office, they have kindly posted our Pride poster (showing the 7 Dorset Prides), our group info, and our much liked "Together Always: United in Diversity" poster (promoting the wonderful variety of local LGBT+ groups). Check them out if you are nearby! The area gets a huge foot fall, with people getting off buses, who may need a .... err .... "convenience"! (Click on above photo to enlarge)
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With HUGE thanks to Weymouth Town Council (esp Charlotte) you can now see a couple of our LGBT+ & Pride posters here!
Displayed by the esplanades beach office, they have kindly posted our Pride poster (showing the 7 Dorset Prides), our group info, and our much liked "Together Always: United in Diversity" poster (promoting the wonderful variety of local LGBT+ groups). Check them out if you are nearby! The area gets a huge foot fall, with people getting off buses, who may need a .... err .... "convenience"! (Click on above photo to enlarge)
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Who is Claude Cahun?
Interactive Workshops Dorchester Corn Exchange. (posted here 17/05/2025)
Monday 26 May &Tues 27 May
Interactive Workshops Dorchester Corn Exchange. (posted here 17/05/2025)
Monday 26 May &Tues 27 May
Dorchester Arts are hosting interactive workshops by the team behind a fascinating new play, ahead of its London run at Southwark Playhouse. We hope to bring the play here in the future.
Who is Claude Cahun? shares the extraordinary story of queer artists, Claude Cahun (Lucy Schwob) and Marcel Moore (Suzanne Malherbe), who actively resisted the Nazis during their occupation of Jersey from 1940 to 1945. With the 80th anniversary of the end of the war in Europe falling on 7 May 2025, and the high profile annual marking of the D-Day landings falling on 6 June, the play has a strong resonance with contemporary reflection on World War 2.
A key theme of the play is gender identity and sexual orientation, with strong synergy to current debates exploring transgender issues. Cahun and Moore are seen as icons by some in the lesbian community.
Workshops will be tailored to individual groups, but the content will comprise:
Links:-
Short trailer about the workshops: https://youtube.com/shorts/42OAji56wW0?si=tWqK3VoG-uDxN6xI
Dorchester Arts:- https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/who-is-claude-cahun-interactive-workshops-at-the-corn-exchange-monday-26-may/
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Who is Claude Cahun? shares the extraordinary story of queer artists, Claude Cahun (Lucy Schwob) and Marcel Moore (Suzanne Malherbe), who actively resisted the Nazis during their occupation of Jersey from 1940 to 1945. With the 80th anniversary of the end of the war in Europe falling on 7 May 2025, and the high profile annual marking of the D-Day landings falling on 6 June, the play has a strong resonance with contemporary reflection on World War 2.
A key theme of the play is gender identity and sexual orientation, with strong synergy to current debates exploring transgender issues. Cahun and Moore are seen as icons by some in the lesbian community.
Workshops will be tailored to individual groups, but the content will comprise:
- Introduction to the play and discussion about the workshop content
- Three rehearsed scenes from Who is Claude Cahun? (including forum theatre style interactive interventions from participants). The scenes are those involving the characters of Cahun and Moore together
- Hot seating of the central characters (Cahun and Moore)
- Facilitated debate to explore the issues in the play, including gender identity
- Drama games and practical exercises for workshop participants, supported by the actors (this item can be taken out if inappropriate for a particular, perhaps vulnerable, group
- Feedback opportunities and Q and A in response to the development of the play
Links:-
Short trailer about the workshops: https://youtube.com/shorts/42OAji56wW0?si=tWqK3VoG-uDxN6xI
Dorchester Arts:- https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/who-is-claude-cahun-interactive-workshops-at-the-corn-exchange-monday-26-may/
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Tiny Art gallery's new LGBTQ+ exhibition - Portland (posted here 15/05/2025)
Extract from Dorset Echo, you can read the full report with photos here: - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25159101.portland-tiny-art-gallerys-new-lgbtq-exhibition-unveiled/
An art gallery on Portland has unveiled its latest LGBTQ+ exhibition amid national turmoil for the community.
The Tiny Art Gallery, which may be the smallest display in Dorset, helps to raise awareness of marginalised groups by letting local people, some with no artistic background, have their work showcased on the island. The gallery opened in February outside the Beehive and showcases a new range of art every month specially curated by former therapists and artists Antje Rook and Yollande Posthumus.
This month the exhibition has been created by members of LGBT+ side, formerly Artachat, and the founders of the Tiny Little Library on Portland, Nat and Amanda Wilding. The exhibition which opened on Monday 12 celebrates the best of the community and speaks to the issues facing LGBTQ+ people on the island. Inside the cabinet features a Freddie Mercury doll, collages of drag queens and Oscar Wilde as well as paintings and pride banners.
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Extract from Dorset Echo, you can read the full report with photos here: - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25159101.portland-tiny-art-gallerys-new-lgbtq-exhibition-unveiled/
An art gallery on Portland has unveiled its latest LGBTQ+ exhibition amid national turmoil for the community.
The Tiny Art Gallery, which may be the smallest display in Dorset, helps to raise awareness of marginalised groups by letting local people, some with no artistic background, have their work showcased on the island. The gallery opened in February outside the Beehive and showcases a new range of art every month specially curated by former therapists and artists Antje Rook and Yollande Posthumus.
This month the exhibition has been created by members of LGBT+ side, formerly Artachat, and the founders of the Tiny Little Library on Portland, Nat and Amanda Wilding. The exhibition which opened on Monday 12 celebrates the best of the community and speaks to the issues facing LGBTQ+ people on the island. Inside the cabinet features a Freddie Mercury doll, collages of drag queens and Oscar Wilde as well as paintings and pride banners.
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Event aims to "normalise trans lives" - Bournemouth University (posted here 15/05/2025)
Extract from BBC News. You can read the full story, with photos here:- www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c79e1yvx817o
Organisers of a university conference have said they are "normalising trans lives" by reuniting researchers across healthcare, science, cultural studies and the arts.
Charity Beyond Reflections has organised Thursday's event at Bournemouth University, with topics including facial feminisation and masculinisation surgeries, and transgender representation in film. It comes just weeks after the Supreme Court ruled the definition of a woman in the Equality Act should be based on biological sex.
Gillian Russell, chief executive of Beyond Reflections, said the event, which was organised a year ago, was "not political" but instead aimed to be "a beacon of hope for the trans community". Ms Russell said trans healthcare would also be explored and "how the community gets though the various political and health challenges". "I think we exist, at the moment, in a sort of environment which is quite negative for trans people," she continued. "We want this to be a bit of a beacon of hope and light to the trans community, showing that the vast majority of trans people just want to get on with their lives...
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Extract from BBC News. You can read the full story, with photos here:- www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c79e1yvx817o
Organisers of a university conference have said they are "normalising trans lives" by reuniting researchers across healthcare, science, cultural studies and the arts.
Charity Beyond Reflections has organised Thursday's event at Bournemouth University, with topics including facial feminisation and masculinisation surgeries, and transgender representation in film. It comes just weeks after the Supreme Court ruled the definition of a woman in the Equality Act should be based on biological sex.
Gillian Russell, chief executive of Beyond Reflections, said the event, which was organised a year ago, was "not political" but instead aimed to be "a beacon of hope for the trans community". Ms Russell said trans healthcare would also be explored and "how the community gets though the various political and health challenges". "I think we exist, at the moment, in a sort of environment which is quite negative for trans people," she continued. "We want this to be a bit of a beacon of hope and light to the trans community, showing that the vast majority of trans people just want to get on with their lives...
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Queer in the Countryside - Lots of events at Bridport Arts (posted here 12/05/2025)
Our Stories: Queer in the Countryside LGBTQIA+ artists, performers and workshops in West Dorset Bridport Arts Centre, May-August 2025
Bridport Arts Centre announces the full programme of events comprising our groundbreaking season Our Stories: Queer in the Countryside.
LGBTQIA+ people don’t just live in cities!
This May-August Bridport Arts Centre celebrates LGBTQIA+ lives and creativity in rural West Dorset with a season of performances, workshops and artworks. The season profiles work by local LGBTQIA+ artists and performers – some of whom will be returning to their Dorset roots to join the celebration. We are also running a series of events that aim to develop emerging local LGBTQIA+ writing talent.
The season provides a space for dialogue about what it means to be queer in rural Britain. Why do some LGBTQIA+ people choose to live in the countryside? And why do others feel the need to leave at the first opportunity? Above all, we aim to celebrate and engage a true diversity of people in our communities. We hope that Our Stories: Queer in the Countryside is a small step towards celebrating the true diversity of West Dorset, making our rural community feel more inclusive – and making it visible.
Among the performers returning to Bridport (the town where they grew up) are singer Douglas Dare (Saturday 21 June, 7.30pm) and performer Kit Ford (Narcissistic Reflections on a Queer Childhood, Friday 20 June, 8pm). West Dorset-based literary organisation The Jawbone Collective will be presenting 'OmniVerse’, a series of workshops designed to nurture and amplify local poetic voices. They will be led by queer performance poets and educators, Polari Prize-winner John McCullough and Bridport-raised UK Poetry Slam champion Kathryn O'Driscoll. Artist, quilter and baker Matt Wilding’s Wings of Pride are on display throughout May and visitors are encouraged to share photos of themselves ‘wearing’ the wings. And artist and curator Paul Sammut will create a new illustrated work – Lisom Rum: Tales of Queer Joy – drawing on the memories and experiences shared by local LGBTQIA+ people.
Claire Tudge, director of Bridport Arts Centre said: “When I first moved to Dorset, a gay friend’s husband told me he was uncomfortable to visit me in the countryside because it was not a place that he felt seen or safe. His comment has stayed with me as it was so at odds with my own experience as a straight cis person and with many of the LGBTQIA+ people I have met and friends that I have made in West Dorset. Was I missing something and did I need to educate myself more? Bridport Art Centre is a space where we share the stories of our community and has a proud history of programming diverse voices, which we will continue to do in perpetuity. We want to take a moment to curiously and respectfully explore whether is there is a juxtaposition between LGBTQIA+ identity in the heteronormative green and pleasant land of the English countryside, while also highlight and celebrate the many stories of queer joy in West Dorset that it has been my pleasure and honour to encounter.”
Performer Kit Ford said: “I have loved performing for as long as I can remember. I spent a lot of my childhood not really performing to other people, however — growing up in the countryside, especially the very rural countryside of West Dorset (which is what I did), you could make a lot of noise and you wouldn’t disturb too much, apart from the cows in the field next door. I think growing up there also kept me a child for a little longer - there was so much space to dream and to play in. I feel very grateful for that. I also think lots about coming into town when I was a teenager on a Wednesday night, for BACstage youth theatre at Bridport Arts Centre. How much bigger and connected and (open and excitingly) grown up it made the world feel. I am so grateful to the Arts Centre for that.”
Singer Douglas Dare said: “Growing up in the quiet of rural West Dorset gave me a deep sense of self-reflection, but it was moving to London - vibrant, loud, and full of possibility - that allowed me to fully embrace and celebrate my queerness. Returning home with that sense of freedom feels both like a privilege and a celebration—a way to share all the parts of myself with the place that shaped me.”
Season curated by Michael Armstrong (ArtsCultureMusic Consultancy) and Claire Tudge (director, Bridport Arts Centre).
Links:-
Bridport Arts - https://www.bridport-arts.com/?s=queer
The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary - listing around 134 local Dorset LGBT+ events, (over May & June, including events at Bridport Arts):- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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Our Stories: Queer in the Countryside LGBTQIA+ artists, performers and workshops in West Dorset Bridport Arts Centre, May-August 2025
Bridport Arts Centre announces the full programme of events comprising our groundbreaking season Our Stories: Queer in the Countryside.
LGBTQIA+ people don’t just live in cities!
This May-August Bridport Arts Centre celebrates LGBTQIA+ lives and creativity in rural West Dorset with a season of performances, workshops and artworks. The season profiles work by local LGBTQIA+ artists and performers – some of whom will be returning to their Dorset roots to join the celebration. We are also running a series of events that aim to develop emerging local LGBTQIA+ writing talent.
The season provides a space for dialogue about what it means to be queer in rural Britain. Why do some LGBTQIA+ people choose to live in the countryside? And why do others feel the need to leave at the first opportunity? Above all, we aim to celebrate and engage a true diversity of people in our communities. We hope that Our Stories: Queer in the Countryside is a small step towards celebrating the true diversity of West Dorset, making our rural community feel more inclusive – and making it visible.
Among the performers returning to Bridport (the town where they grew up) are singer Douglas Dare (Saturday 21 June, 7.30pm) and performer Kit Ford (Narcissistic Reflections on a Queer Childhood, Friday 20 June, 8pm). West Dorset-based literary organisation The Jawbone Collective will be presenting 'OmniVerse’, a series of workshops designed to nurture and amplify local poetic voices. They will be led by queer performance poets and educators, Polari Prize-winner John McCullough and Bridport-raised UK Poetry Slam champion Kathryn O'Driscoll. Artist, quilter and baker Matt Wilding’s Wings of Pride are on display throughout May and visitors are encouraged to share photos of themselves ‘wearing’ the wings. And artist and curator Paul Sammut will create a new illustrated work – Lisom Rum: Tales of Queer Joy – drawing on the memories and experiences shared by local LGBTQIA+ people.
Claire Tudge, director of Bridport Arts Centre said: “When I first moved to Dorset, a gay friend’s husband told me he was uncomfortable to visit me in the countryside because it was not a place that he felt seen or safe. His comment has stayed with me as it was so at odds with my own experience as a straight cis person and with many of the LGBTQIA+ people I have met and friends that I have made in West Dorset. Was I missing something and did I need to educate myself more? Bridport Art Centre is a space where we share the stories of our community and has a proud history of programming diverse voices, which we will continue to do in perpetuity. We want to take a moment to curiously and respectfully explore whether is there is a juxtaposition between LGBTQIA+ identity in the heteronormative green and pleasant land of the English countryside, while also highlight and celebrate the many stories of queer joy in West Dorset that it has been my pleasure and honour to encounter.”
Performer Kit Ford said: “I have loved performing for as long as I can remember. I spent a lot of my childhood not really performing to other people, however — growing up in the countryside, especially the very rural countryside of West Dorset (which is what I did), you could make a lot of noise and you wouldn’t disturb too much, apart from the cows in the field next door. I think growing up there also kept me a child for a little longer - there was so much space to dream and to play in. I feel very grateful for that. I also think lots about coming into town when I was a teenager on a Wednesday night, for BACstage youth theatre at Bridport Arts Centre. How much bigger and connected and (open and excitingly) grown up it made the world feel. I am so grateful to the Arts Centre for that.”
Singer Douglas Dare said: “Growing up in the quiet of rural West Dorset gave me a deep sense of self-reflection, but it was moving to London - vibrant, loud, and full of possibility - that allowed me to fully embrace and celebrate my queerness. Returning home with that sense of freedom feels both like a privilege and a celebration—a way to share all the parts of myself with the place that shaped me.”
Season curated by Michael Armstrong (ArtsCultureMusic Consultancy) and Claire Tudge (director, Bridport Arts Centre).
Links:-
Bridport Arts - https://www.bridport-arts.com/?s=queer
The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary - listing around 134 local Dorset LGBT+ events, (over May & June, including events at Bridport Arts):- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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Wings of Pride - Bridport Arts (posted here 12/05/2025)
New exhibition at Bridport Arts 7 - 31 May Part of Queer in the Countryside
New exhibition at Bridport Arts 7 - 31 May Part of Queer in the Countryside
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This wonderful quilted artwork by artist, quilter and baker, Matt Wilding, is on display in the BAC foyer until 31 May. It serves two purposes: to celebrate and to protect. To celebrate… The wings represent power and pride in the LGBTQIA+ community with acceptance and equality. To protect… The wings represent protection, vigilance and courage in the face of adversity. Based on an eagle’s wingspan, it has been created in the colours of the progressive pride flag. Made in two pieces with the intention that it could be shared with someone to show your support. Stand between the wings and give yourself Wings of Pride.
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Wings of Pride is part of our season Queer in the Countryside, which explores LGBTQIA+ lives and experiences and offers opportunities for celebrating diverse and under-represented voices.
Links:- https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/wings-of-pride-by-matt-wilding/
and https://www.bridport-arts.com/?s=queer
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Links:- https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/wings-of-pride-by-matt-wilding/
and https://www.bridport-arts.com/?s=queer
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Trans Rights Are Human Rights! - Weymouth Demo (posted here 10/05/2025)
"Trans Rights Are Human Rights" was heard loud and proud over Weymouth!
"Trans Rights Are Human Rights" was heard loud and proud over Weymouth!
Two things that often worry organisers of outdoor events are the weather and attendance. Neither proved to be an issue on one of the warmest and sunniest days of the year so far.
Some 60 plus people attended the Transgender Protest meet up on Weymouth’s Esplanade by the Jubilee Clock on Saturday 10th May.
Organised by local transgender people and allies, the gathering attracted a wide age range and people from a variety of backgrounds, and organisations. Inclusive it was! Supportive it was! Essential it was!
Some 60 plus people attended the Transgender Protest meet up on Weymouth’s Esplanade by the Jubilee Clock on Saturday 10th May.
Organised by local transgender people and allies, the gathering attracted a wide age range and people from a variety of backgrounds, and organisations. Inclusive it was! Supportive it was! Essential it was!
Many people in the crowd had banners and flags with messages of support and solidarity.
Several people gave speeches highlighting the recent Supreme Court ruling and how damaging it is towards Transgender & non binary people.
Wonderful to get so many car horn hoots in support, and even better that someone who was driving by felt compelled to stop, join in, and speak!
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Weymouth Gay Group was there, and thanks to Naomi, she read out our statement of solidarity.
Weymouth Gay Group comment 22/04/2025 regarding the recent supreme court ruling on women.
“Weymouth Gay Group stands in Solidarity with our transgender friends and their community.
It appears the Supreme Court had no input from transgender people. How can you come to a valid Court result without hearing from both sides? Shame!
The world needs much more understanding, acceptance, love, support and empathy for all minority groups. It can start with all of us, just take some time out to sit down with a coffee with a Transgender friend and LISTEN to what they have to say!
Take a walk in their shoes, feel the pain, while they are just struggling to be who they really are.”
Links:-
Dorset Eye dorseteye.com/trans-solidarity-rally-draws-strong-local-support/
Dorset Echo - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25154441.peaceful-protest-held-weymouth-trans-rights/
You can read about the Bournemouth Demo - which had an amazing 700 people attending - here:-
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25155401.hundreds-protest-bournemouth-supreme-court-ruling/
Note:- keep an eye out for a news story in Dorset Echo about the Supreme Court ruling and local Transgender peoples views!
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Weymouth Gay Group comment 22/04/2025 regarding the recent supreme court ruling on women.
“Weymouth Gay Group stands in Solidarity with our transgender friends and their community.
It appears the Supreme Court had no input from transgender people. How can you come to a valid Court result without hearing from both sides? Shame!
The world needs much more understanding, acceptance, love, support and empathy for all minority groups. It can start with all of us, just take some time out to sit down with a coffee with a Transgender friend and LISTEN to what they have to say!
Take a walk in their shoes, feel the pain, while they are just struggling to be who they really are.”
Links:-
Dorset Eye dorseteye.com/trans-solidarity-rally-draws-strong-local-support/
Dorset Echo - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25154441.peaceful-protest-held-weymouth-trans-rights/
You can read about the Bournemouth Demo - which had an amazing 700 people attending - here:-
https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/25155401.hundreds-protest-bournemouth-supreme-court-ruling/
Note:- keep an eye out for a news story in Dorset Echo about the Supreme Court ruling and local Transgender peoples views!
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Exeter Pride / Out There Exeter (posted here 08/05/2025)
Standing Strong in Challenging Times
Exeter Pride is celbrated this weekend on Saturday 10th May and they say they are one of the biggest FREE Pride events! Although slightly outside our Dorset area, it does attract people from Dorset.
Standing Strong in Challenging Times
Exeter Pride is celbrated this weekend on Saturday 10th May and they say they are one of the biggest FREE Pride events! Although slightly outside our Dorset area, it does attract people from Dorset.
Of note in the pre publicity is this comment in an email from "Out There Exeter" to Weymouth Gay Group.
Its so spot on for 2025, and we share here ...
Standing Strong in Challenging Times
As we come together for Exeter Pride 2025, we do so in a moment of concern and reflection. Across the UK our LGBTQ+ community is facing renewed threats:
- The recent court ruling chips away at our rights and protections.
- Hostile rhetoric from political figures and media outlets continues to embolden prejudice.
- There's a sharp rise in hate crimes, with many in our community feeling increasingly unsafe.
- Online hate and harassment are escalating, especially targeting trans and non-binary individuals.
Links:-
Exeter Pride - www.exeterpride.co.uk/
Out There Exeter - out-there-exeter.com/
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Sherborne Pride Returns for a Second Year – ‘Love STILL Lives Here’
(posted here 07/05/2025)
Sherborne Pride is proud to announce its return on Sunday 6th July 2025, following the overwhelming success of last year’s inaugural event, which welcomed over 3,000 attendees to the historic Dorset town.
In a recent email to Weymouth Gay Group, Sade - a co founder, said:-
"With the resonant campaign message ‘Love STILL lives here’, the second annual Pride is set to be even bigger, bolder, and brighter, celebrating acceptance, inclusivity, and rural community pride in a time when it’s never been more needed."
Sherborne Pride is a free, all-welcome celebration, featuring a colourful Pride Parade, an inclusive Street Market, and the unmissable Pride Party in the Park – all brought to life by volunteers and the generous support of community-minded sponsors.
WGG comment - "The Parade was amazing last year, a huge number of people taking part as it weaved its way through the town to the gardens. Our WGG stall was one of many in Digby Road, and we are thrilled to return for 2025."
Sade added - "We’re proud to present another all day festival of ‘love is love’ including a phenomenal line up of acts from the heart of our little Dorset town in Pageant Gardens . From internationally recognised recording artists and iconic British bands, to a Ru Paul’s Drag Race Queen and seasoned cabaret and comedy performers." The Party in the Park, runs for most of the day, and you can already see a full list of their wonderful performers on our WGG website Pride page (link below) for 2025.
This year’s festivities are made possible by the dedication of local volunteers and the backing of key partners. Apex Brewing Co proudly returns as headline sponsor, alongside lead sponsors Battens Solicitors, Vineyards, and Hannahlou Creative.
Sunday 6th July 2025 Pagent Gardens Sherborne, Dorset, pop it in your diary now!
Links:-
Sherborne Pride website - https://sherbornepride.org/
WGG Pride page - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html (with list of stage line up)
BBC News Britpop band & drag artists to perform at Pride - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crrzrn94gnjo
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(posted here 07/05/2025)
Sherborne Pride is proud to announce its return on Sunday 6th July 2025, following the overwhelming success of last year’s inaugural event, which welcomed over 3,000 attendees to the historic Dorset town.
In a recent email to Weymouth Gay Group, Sade - a co founder, said:-
"With the resonant campaign message ‘Love STILL lives here’, the second annual Pride is set to be even bigger, bolder, and brighter, celebrating acceptance, inclusivity, and rural community pride in a time when it’s never been more needed."
Sherborne Pride is a free, all-welcome celebration, featuring a colourful Pride Parade, an inclusive Street Market, and the unmissable Pride Party in the Park – all brought to life by volunteers and the generous support of community-minded sponsors.
WGG comment - "The Parade was amazing last year, a huge number of people taking part as it weaved its way through the town to the gardens. Our WGG stall was one of many in Digby Road, and we are thrilled to return for 2025."
Sade added - "We’re proud to present another all day festival of ‘love is love’ including a phenomenal line up of acts from the heart of our little Dorset town in Pageant Gardens . From internationally recognised recording artists and iconic British bands, to a Ru Paul’s Drag Race Queen and seasoned cabaret and comedy performers." The Party in the Park, runs for most of the day, and you can already see a full list of their wonderful performers on our WGG website Pride page (link below) for 2025.
This year’s festivities are made possible by the dedication of local volunteers and the backing of key partners. Apex Brewing Co proudly returns as headline sponsor, alongside lead sponsors Battens Solicitors, Vineyards, and Hannahlou Creative.
Sunday 6th July 2025 Pagent Gardens Sherborne, Dorset, pop it in your diary now!
Links:-
Sherborne Pride website - https://sherbornepride.org/
WGG Pride page - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html (with list of stage line up)
BBC News Britpop band & drag artists to perform at Pride - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crrzrn94gnjo
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Weekend of Dorset Trans Solidarity Protests (posted here 05/05/2025)
This weekend, May 10th & 11th sees two Dorset protests in support of Transgender Solidarity.
This weekend, May 10th & 11th sees two Dorset protests in support of Transgender Solidarity.
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Weymouth
This Saturday, 10th May, from 11am to 12pm, our wonderful friends at LGBT-side (from Portland, also known as Queer Club) are hosting a gathering of trans solidarity by the Jubilee Clock on Weymouth Seafront – and we’d love for you to be there with us. This is a time for community. A time for compassion. A time to show up for our trans, non-binary and intersex family – to remind each other that we are never alone, even when the world feels loud or uncertain. There will be poems, speeches, and heartfelt moments shared in support and celebration of identity, diversity, and strength. After the event, we’ll be heading back to the Little Tiny Library – a chance to decompress, reflect, and connect over a cuppa if you’d like to join us. This is a peaceful and apolitical gathering. Placards and signs are absolutely welcome – the more colour and creativity, the better! – but please keep them free of any party-political or organisational affiliations. This is about people, not politics. About kindness, not division. Come as you are. Bring a friend. Bring your voice. Let’s stand together – visibly, joyfully, and in solidarity. 💛 |
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Bournemouth
Trans Liberation Bournemouth is organising a protest against the Supreme Court judgement changing the protections in the equality act that help keep trans people safe, as well as the subsequent transphobia from the EHRC, the media and politicians. The protest will take place on the 11th of May, in The Triangle, Bournemouth. There will be speeches, starting from 2pm, and a march starting at 2:30 from The Triangle to the Pier. Trans Liberation Bournemouth is not affiliated with any particular ideology or party, and anyone who wants to oppose transphobia, trans or ally is more than welcome at the event. Pride flags are encouraged! The protest is intended to be a peaceful one, and given the scrutiny from the media around placards at recent trans protests we encourage people to keep the messages on placards non-violent. We also encourage anyone attending to read the available information from the Green and black Cross on staying safe at protests. If you or your organisation would like to get involved, if you have questions or if you'd like to contact us for any other reason, please get in touch at [email protected]. |
More Weymouth info see - https://little.tinylibrary.co.uk/trans-solidarity-protest/
More Bournemouth info see - https://www.transliberationbournemouth.org/2025/04/11th-may-protest-against-supreme-court.html
More Bournemouth info see - https://www.transliberationbournemouth.org/2025/04/11th-may-protest-against-supreme-court.html
Pub Pride in Dorset 2025 (posted here 05/05/2025)
- only one Dorset venue listed, in Weymouth!
The National Pub Prides are almost upon us! Friday May 30th. Running now in its 5th year, it brings people together to enjoy a safe space together on the dawn of Pride Month at the end of May. In the past, several Dorset Pubs have taken part - a huge success being The Waterloo Pub in Weymouth a few years ago (now under different management)
- only one Dorset venue listed, in Weymouth!
The National Pub Prides are almost upon us! Friday May 30th. Running now in its 5th year, it brings people together to enjoy a safe space together on the dawn of Pride Month at the end of May. In the past, several Dorset Pubs have taken part - a huge success being The Waterloo Pub in Weymouth a few years ago (now under different management)
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The only Dorset Pub venue listed for 2025 is The Wyke Smugglers in Weymouth. Weymouth Gay Group have contacted them in the past to find out what events they are putting on for Pub Pride, and as far as we know - none! We will be in touch again with them shortly for any 2025 info. More info about Pub Pride, see our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorset-pub-prides.html And - https://askforclive.com/pub-pride/ Ps, it might not be to late to get your local pub signed up for Pub Pride 2025 - if you ask the organisers quickly & nicely!
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Poole Pride 2025 Saturday 7th June (updated 26/04/2025)
Save the date - Poole Pride is set to return this Summer as a joyful celebration of the beautiful identities of our community. The Organisers said in a recent press release:-
"With its home here at Lighthouse, come as you are and embrace a full day and night of inclusive entertainment.
By day there’s a festival of LGBTQ+ creativity, with talks, crafts and workshops, live comedy, cabaret and music. Explore an array of stands and meet with local organisations supportive of the LGBTQ+ community.
New for 2025, the ‘Queer Ceilidh’ (Celtic Folk Dancing) is sure to be a memorable highlight and there’s no shortage of other opportunities to get into the groove with a family friendly silent disco and a Destination Opera recital. And be sure to visit Dorset-based-sewist Matt Wilding’s Wings of Pride installation. Quilted in two pieces and based on an eagle’s wingspan, the wings are a celebration of Pride that can also be used to protect and comfort.
Then in the evening, stand-up comedian Chloe Petts “one of our most compelling young comics” (The Guardian) gives us an insightful and humorous take on gender and sexuality in the Theatre. This will open the evening to drag artists and an afterparty silent disco.
Everyone is welcome at Poole Pride, a joyous LGBTQ+ festival filled with vibrant events for all ages."
By day our programme includes:
Children’s Storytelling, Family Friendly Silent Disco, Writing Out Loud – Queer Spoken Word, Family Friendly Cabaret – Acts to be announced, Queer Ceilidh (Celtic Folk Dancing), Destination Opera presents A Meditation on Queer Art Song, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra – Music Making Workshop, Iris Festival Short Film Screenings, Wings of Love Art Installation, Face Painting, Free Arts & Crafts, Community Stalls
By night our programme includes:
7pm – Chloe Petts 8pm- Pecs Drag Kings 8.45pm – Come on Out Cabaret 9.30pm – Silent Disco
(please note, programme times are not exact and may vary)
Date Saturday 7th June 2025
Venue The Lighthouse. Arts and Entertainment 21 Kingland Road. Poole. Dorset BH15 1UG
Phone 01202 280000
email [email protected]
website https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/save-the-date-poole-pride-to-return/
and - https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/event/poole-pride-2025/
See also our WGG Pride page here :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group had a info stall at this Pride last year, and enjoyed it! We will be there again this year!
Save the date - Poole Pride is set to return this Summer as a joyful celebration of the beautiful identities of our community. The Organisers said in a recent press release:-
"With its home here at Lighthouse, come as you are and embrace a full day and night of inclusive entertainment.
By day there’s a festival of LGBTQ+ creativity, with talks, crafts and workshops, live comedy, cabaret and music. Explore an array of stands and meet with local organisations supportive of the LGBTQ+ community.
New for 2025, the ‘Queer Ceilidh’ (Celtic Folk Dancing) is sure to be a memorable highlight and there’s no shortage of other opportunities to get into the groove with a family friendly silent disco and a Destination Opera recital. And be sure to visit Dorset-based-sewist Matt Wilding’s Wings of Pride installation. Quilted in two pieces and based on an eagle’s wingspan, the wings are a celebration of Pride that can also be used to protect and comfort.
Then in the evening, stand-up comedian Chloe Petts “one of our most compelling young comics” (The Guardian) gives us an insightful and humorous take on gender and sexuality in the Theatre. This will open the evening to drag artists and an afterparty silent disco.
Everyone is welcome at Poole Pride, a joyous LGBTQ+ festival filled with vibrant events for all ages."
By day our programme includes:
Children’s Storytelling, Family Friendly Silent Disco, Writing Out Loud – Queer Spoken Word, Family Friendly Cabaret – Acts to be announced, Queer Ceilidh (Celtic Folk Dancing), Destination Opera presents A Meditation on Queer Art Song, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra – Music Making Workshop, Iris Festival Short Film Screenings, Wings of Love Art Installation, Face Painting, Free Arts & Crafts, Community Stalls
By night our programme includes:
7pm – Chloe Petts 8pm- Pecs Drag Kings 8.45pm – Come on Out Cabaret 9.30pm – Silent Disco
(please note, programme times are not exact and may vary)
Date Saturday 7th June 2025
Venue The Lighthouse. Arts and Entertainment 21 Kingland Road. Poole. Dorset BH15 1UG
Phone 01202 280000
email [email protected]
website https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/save-the-date-poole-pride-to-return/
and - https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/event/poole-pride-2025/
See also our WGG Pride page here :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group had a info stall at this Pride last year, and enjoyed it! We will be there again this year!
Poole Pride: A Meditation on Queer Art Song (posted here 26/04/2025)
A celebration of inclusivity and our beautiful LGBTQ+ community, Poole Pride is proud to present Destination Opera’s Meditation on Queer Art Song, offering a new take on some familiar and lesser known music from the classical repertoire.
A celebration of inclusivity and our beautiful LGBTQ+ community, Poole Pride is proud to present Destination Opera’s Meditation on Queer Art Song, offering a new take on some familiar and lesser known music from the classical repertoire.
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Presented as part of the all-day family-friendly festival, the afternoon performance at Lighthouse on Saturday 7 June will be followed by a Music Making Workshop hosted by Neil Valentine and Ed Lee from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Dorset-based international opera singer and producer Jon Valender has chosen music for the recital by composers such as Tchaikovsky, Benjamin Britten and Francis Poulenc, who were known to be (or widely accepted as) gay, as well as those such as Ivor Gurney who were assumed to be. |
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Jon explains: “In putting together this recital I had lots of choices to make and have ended up with what I think of as a meditation on queerness focusing on late 19th and early 20th century. I have chosen three famous gay composers from across the globe and then created a miscellany of British composers to reflect upon their queer experience across the decades".
More see :- https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/poole-pride-a-meditation-on-queer-art-song/
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More see :- https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/poole-pride-a-meditation-on-queer-art-song/
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Sylvia Townsend Warner, statue in Dorchester gets approval (posted here 26/04/2025)
A pioneer for gay rights is set to be honoured with a statue in Dorchester
The BBC reported:- (22 April 2025)
"Plans for a statue of a writer who spent most of her adult life in west Dorset have been given the go-ahead.
Sylvia Townsend Warner was a contemporary of Virginia Woolf and lived in Dorset with her long-term partner, Valentine Ackland in the early 20th Century. The life-size statue, cast in bronze, will sit on a new public bench in South Street, Dorchester."
Dorset Echo reported (October 2024)
"Sylvia Townsend Warner, a writer and poet who eventually settled in Dorset, was chosen to be immortalised with a statue, as part of the Visible Women UK campaign - formerly named Dorchester Sheroes. It was launched earlier this year as a community project in conjunction with local schools, clubs and societies along with support of the Dorchester Joint Heritage Committee." It aims to champion the voices of Dorset women whose stories are not often told.
"She spent most of her adult life in Frome Vauchurch with poet Valentine Ackland, her long-term partner. At a time when same-sex relationships were heavily stigmatised, their partnership defied societal expectations, positioning both Townsend Warner and Ackland as pioneers for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance."
Anya Pearson, trustee of Visible Women UK, added: "Sylvia lived her life as her true self, something many still find impossible due to prejudice and ignorance. "She is a modern-day role model, allowing young people to see themselves in what she achieved all those years ago. I can’t wait to shake things up a little with a beautiful statue dedicated to such a talented and remarkable woman."
You can see photos of the statue and read more about this fab project on these links below:-
Links:-
BBC :-
(22 April 2025) https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr78j79d2ndo
Dorset Echo :-
(22 April 2025) https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25108064.approval-sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-dorchester/
(October 2024) https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24682475.sylvia-townsend-warner-honoured-dorchester-statue/
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A pioneer for gay rights is set to be honoured with a statue in Dorchester
The BBC reported:- (22 April 2025)
"Plans for a statue of a writer who spent most of her adult life in west Dorset have been given the go-ahead.
Sylvia Townsend Warner was a contemporary of Virginia Woolf and lived in Dorset with her long-term partner, Valentine Ackland in the early 20th Century. The life-size statue, cast in bronze, will sit on a new public bench in South Street, Dorchester."
Dorset Echo reported (October 2024)
"Sylvia Townsend Warner, a writer and poet who eventually settled in Dorset, was chosen to be immortalised with a statue, as part of the Visible Women UK campaign - formerly named Dorchester Sheroes. It was launched earlier this year as a community project in conjunction with local schools, clubs and societies along with support of the Dorchester Joint Heritage Committee." It aims to champion the voices of Dorset women whose stories are not often told.
"She spent most of her adult life in Frome Vauchurch with poet Valentine Ackland, her long-term partner. At a time when same-sex relationships were heavily stigmatised, their partnership defied societal expectations, positioning both Townsend Warner and Ackland as pioneers for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance."
Anya Pearson, trustee of Visible Women UK, added: "Sylvia lived her life as her true self, something many still find impossible due to prejudice and ignorance. "She is a modern-day role model, allowing young people to see themselves in what she achieved all those years ago. I can’t wait to shake things up a little with a beautiful statue dedicated to such a talented and remarkable woman."
You can see photos of the statue and read more about this fab project on these links below:-
Links:-
BBC :-
(22 April 2025) https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr78j79d2ndo
Dorset Echo :-
(22 April 2025) https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25108064.approval-sylvia-townsend-warner-statue-dorchester/
(October 2024) https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24682475.sylvia-townsend-warner-honoured-dorchester-statue/
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Transgender group suffers double set back (posted here 22/04/205)
The "This is Me" group that used to meet up twice a month in Dorchester, had a shock when those hosting their pub venue had changed with no advance notice! The group, which had no advanced notice of this change of pub landlords, (at Goldies Dorchester) were surprised and perhaps rather upset when they did not feel so welcomed as in the past. However, they still meet up once a month in Poole and Anabelle, key organiser, said they were hopeful of finding a new Bridport venue soon.
In another set back for their group, they have recently changed their website hoast. Their new website (s) :- - https://thisismedorset.infy.uk/
and also - https://thisismedorset.site.pro/ Several people have said to us they have found it difficult to find them online. We are sure they will bounce back from these setbacks once everything is sorted.
Update 01/05/2025 They have found a new Dorchester pub venue for a once a month meet up - Tom Browns pub.
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The "This is Me" group that used to meet up twice a month in Dorchester, had a shock when those hosting their pub venue had changed with no advance notice! The group, which had no advanced notice of this change of pub landlords, (at Goldies Dorchester) were surprised and perhaps rather upset when they did not feel so welcomed as in the past. However, they still meet up once a month in Poole and Anabelle, key organiser, said they were hopeful of finding a new Bridport venue soon.
In another set back for their group, they have recently changed their website hoast. Their new website (s) :- - https://thisismedorset.infy.uk/
and also - https://thisismedorset.site.pro/ Several people have said to us they have found it difficult to find them online. We are sure they will bounce back from these setbacks once everything is sorted.
Update 01/05/2025 They have found a new Dorchester pub venue for a once a month meet up - Tom Browns pub.
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Pop Up Pride - Dorchester! with a variety of events including a Pride Picnic (posted here 13/04/2025)
A group of local LGBT+ people have applied to Dorchester Town Council for funding towards Pop Up Pride Dorchester (PUPD). One highlight is a Pride Picnic at the Borough Gardens on Saturday 21st June. There will also be a range of other events including Proud Poems at Vinyl Van (see photo left below).
In the application to Dorchester Town Council Vinyl Van said:-
"We are volunteering as part of an organising team to help curate ‘Pop Up Pride Dorchester’ (PUPD) where we will coordinate partners across the town who are running activities during Pride month in June. We aim to create a full and vibrant programme of events to showcase all the positive activities people are hosting and we will market it widely. Vinyl Van also plan to hold some of our own activities including a Poetry ‘slam’ and an open mic night as well as a pride themed Joy of Decks night
We will also provide music for the Pride Picnic being hosted by the organising group in Borough Gardens on Saturday 21st June. It is hoped that the events will appeal to a wide range of people who live in Dorchester but might also attract others to the town to attend specific events which will benefit our town / businesses too.
This is the first time we have run PUPD and we aim to make it a very low-cost project. Going forward we would like to make this an annual event and would hope to get sponsorship from local businesses as well as some of the organisations taking part"
Dorchester Hospital (DCH) staff Pride network has a handy poster listing many of the Dorset Pride events including the Pride Picnic.
(See poster right below. Click on poster to enlarge).
We hope to bring you more details in the coming weeks as they become available, and we are sure Weymouth Gay Group would love to join in the celebrations!
A group of local LGBT+ people have applied to Dorchester Town Council for funding towards Pop Up Pride Dorchester (PUPD). One highlight is a Pride Picnic at the Borough Gardens on Saturday 21st June. There will also be a range of other events including Proud Poems at Vinyl Van (see photo left below).
In the application to Dorchester Town Council Vinyl Van said:-
"We are volunteering as part of an organising team to help curate ‘Pop Up Pride Dorchester’ (PUPD) where we will coordinate partners across the town who are running activities during Pride month in June. We aim to create a full and vibrant programme of events to showcase all the positive activities people are hosting and we will market it widely. Vinyl Van also plan to hold some of our own activities including a Poetry ‘slam’ and an open mic night as well as a pride themed Joy of Decks night
We will also provide music for the Pride Picnic being hosted by the organising group in Borough Gardens on Saturday 21st June. It is hoped that the events will appeal to a wide range of people who live in Dorchester but might also attract others to the town to attend specific events which will benefit our town / businesses too.
This is the first time we have run PUPD and we aim to make it a very low-cost project. Going forward we would like to make this an annual event and would hope to get sponsorship from local businesses as well as some of the organisations taking part"
Dorchester Hospital (DCH) staff Pride network has a handy poster listing many of the Dorset Pride events including the Pride Picnic.
(See poster right below. Click on poster to enlarge).
We hope to bring you more details in the coming weeks as they become available, and we are sure Weymouth Gay Group would love to join in the celebrations!
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Turn the volume up! Portlands new LGBT+ Library on the radio! (posted here 10/04/2025)
"Out with Kathy - A weekly BBC Radio show focussed on the LGBTQ+ community, where everyone's welcome", recently featured Nat from the Portland LGBTQIA Group and the wonderful community library project. Nat, who is one of the voluntary librarians, spoke about the Library, Bibby, the Portland LGBTQIA group and LGBTQIA life on Portland.
"Out with Kathy" is broadcast across a number of BBC Local Radio stations in Southern England most Wednesdays from 9pm. You can also catch up with past shows for a limited time on BBC Sounds. |
You can listen at approx 21.45 in, here:-
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0kyp061 (available for a limited time) |
Library info:-
Situated in the heart of Fortuneswell, our little library grew from a seed planted in our LGBTQ+ Support Group. Resources for our community are few and far between in Weymouth and, especially, on Portland, and we thought this needed to change. So we made the change. We have a small, but always growing (donations are welcome) selection of literature, and this isn't limited to books. We also have a selection of leaflets to help you find help, support, guidance, and advice from a variety of charities. Oh, and we have tea and coffee available too.
The library is run by a small group of volunteers; Amanda, Ash, Nat and Rocca. They're a friendly bunch, and will be happy to help you with any queries you have and, if there's something you're looking for, and you can't find it, they will do their best to help.
Opening times:- Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 3pm - 6pm. More info - little.tinylibrary.co.uk/
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Situated in the heart of Fortuneswell, our little library grew from a seed planted in our LGBTQ+ Support Group. Resources for our community are few and far between in Weymouth and, especially, on Portland, and we thought this needed to change. So we made the change. We have a small, but always growing (donations are welcome) selection of literature, and this isn't limited to books. We also have a selection of leaflets to help you find help, support, guidance, and advice from a variety of charities. Oh, and we have tea and coffee available too.
The library is run by a small group of volunteers; Amanda, Ash, Nat and Rocca. They're a friendly bunch, and will be happy to help you with any queries you have and, if there's something you're looking for, and you can't find it, they will do their best to help.
Opening times:- Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 3pm - 6pm. More info - little.tinylibrary.co.uk/
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Queer in the Countryside ..... Coming soon to Bridport Arts (posted here 10/04/2025)
A number of events of interest to our Dorset LGBT+ Community are taking place at Brirdport Arts Centre over the coming months. They include films, spoken word, and more. Queer in the Countryside, explores LGBTQI+ lives and experiences and offers opportunities for celebrating diverse and under-represented voices.
A number of events of interest to our Dorset LGBT+ Community are taking place at Brirdport Arts Centre over the coming months. They include films, spoken word, and more. Queer in the Countryside, explores LGBTQI+ lives and experiences and offers opportunities for celebrating diverse and under-represented voices.
OmniVerse:- An extraordinary evening of powerful words and performances reflecting the realities of what it is to be an unheard or marginalised voice… our OmniVerse showcase, headlined by award-winning poet John McCullough alongside Bridport born spoken word artist and UK Slam Winner Kathryn O’Driscoll. Plus performances from West Dorset poets.
The first event takes place on 28 May, but most are in June and July. You can find info about all 8 of the events here https://www.bridport-arts.com/?s=queer Stay tuned for more details in the comming months.
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The first event takes place on 28 May, but most are in June and July. You can find info about all 8 of the events here https://www.bridport-arts.com/?s=queer Stay tuned for more details in the comming months.
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New Portland & Weymouth Choir coming soon! - LGBT+ and fully inclusive (posted here 10/04/2025)
Jon who is organising this explained in an email to Weymouth Gay Group, that while those behind this project are LGBT+, the choir is open to anyone and everyone!
Jon who is organising this explained in an email to Weymouth Gay Group, that while those behind this project are LGBT+, the choir is open to anyone and everyone!
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Artachat - Portland LGBTQ+ meetup.
When: Wednesday 28th May, 6 - 8.30pm At: b-side, 77 Fortuneswell, DT5 1LY
Tonight - note change - Rocca siad - Jon (who was doing the choir), can no longer do May so we’re doing the Portland Dress session in May instead!
Please note: - You need to BOOK your place at this event in ADVANCE! Text Rocca on 07931183804
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When: Wednesday 28th May, 6 - 8.30pm At: b-side, 77 Fortuneswell, DT5 1LY
Tonight - note change - Rocca siad - Jon (who was doing the choir), can no longer do May so we’re doing the Portland Dress session in May instead!
Please note: - You need to BOOK your place at this event in ADVANCE! Text Rocca on 07931183804
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Beer Mats and Banners - getting ready for a summer of Prides! (Posted here 05/04/2025)
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Weymouth Gay Group have recently taken delivery of a new banner, and over 1000 new beer mats! The beer mats have in the past been a really great way of helping us to promote our pub based social group. With the new design, by our much missed "Somerset Mike", they feature QR codes (as well as our website address) for people to quickly access information. The QR scan links to our very popular:- The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events website page, and The Dorset LGBT+ Community News page (you are on it!) |
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The new banner / flag is HUGE! (top right in above photo)
It will really help to make sure we are noticed at Pride and other events. We are keen to receive sponsorship / donations towards these costs, if you would like to contribute, please email us ([email protected]) for more information, or join and ask at our pub meetups. Many thanks to WGG guys Tony & Mervin for helping to kick start funding, and all the other guys in our group for their contributions. A future project requiring financial support is helping to promote our LGBT+ Helplines page. Sponsorship welcomed. |
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Reform UK party anti Trans Youth story
- "lack of knowledge & vitriol" - says Space (posted here 04/04/3025)
The Purbeck Gazette has recently covered a couple of LGBT+ news stories, and has issued an apology following the publication (Feb 17th) of a column submitted by Reform UK. The apology stated " .... a submission from Reform UK - in our view - went beyond the voicing of an opinion we do not agree with. It identified an unelected individual and targeted them for criticism and this was unacceptable."
- "lack of knowledge & vitriol" - says Space (posted here 04/04/3025)
The Purbeck Gazette has recently covered a couple of LGBT+ news stories, and has issued an apology following the publication (Feb 17th) of a column submitted by Reform UK. The apology stated " .... a submission from Reform UK - in our view - went beyond the voicing of an opinion we do not agree with. It identified an unelected individual and targeted them for criticism and this was unacceptable."
In the Reform UK article, entitled "Protect our Children in their schools" Thomas Gargrave, Chair South Dorset Constituency Reform UK, blasts the work of local charity Space Youth Project (SYP) and its head of Education as well as Stonewall.
Ending his rant by saying "The protection of our children, be it in their schools or online, from extremely fringe, adult ideologies, is one of the most critically important responsibilities a Reform UK government has."
(click on photo right to enlarge)
Space Youth Project responded in the March 17th edition highlighting the good work done by SYP and Stonewall, Plus also putting some of Mr Gargraves quoted statistics into perspective.
SYP stated ".... the article talks of "protecting" children from "fringe, adult ideologies" we would argue that a lack of knowledge and vitriol from adults aimed at children is a far more dangerous element."
(click on photo right to enlarge)
Also in the same edition, Mel Lane wrote a very good response article to Mr Gargrave, entitled "Difference is to be celebrated".
Ending her contribution by saying "You can't turn someone transgender. You can't turn someone gay, but you can help children to understand that difference isn't something to be scared or ashamed of - it's what makes the human race so successful. When we welcome and celebrate difference, we all benefit."
(click on photo right to enlarge)
The Purbeck Gazette editions of note are February 17th issue 334, and March 17th issue 336. You can see them online here:-
https://www.purbeckgazette.co.uk/issue-334/ (page 26)
https://www.purbeckgazette.co.uk/issue-336/ (pages 22, 23, 27.)
The Purbeck Gazette also has in its 336 edition a story about LGBTQ+ Champion Sylvia Townsend, and the statue for her in Dorchester, plus a letter from Cllr Ben Wilson relating to Mr Gargraves above comments.
Note:-
It is not the first time (sadly) that local politicians have expressed Transphobic or similar negative views about LGBT+ people, particularly Transgender. The former local MP Mr Drax was far from complimentary in July 2023, writing in his then column in The Dorset Echo. He lost his seat in the following General Election. A local councillor also expressed similar negative views, mainly on social media. He is also no longer in office.
This is in great contrast to the new MP for South Dorset - Lloyd Hatton. Who contacted us - Weymouth Gay Group - and asked if he could attend our pub meetup which he did not long after being elected at the last General Election! Plus, the new MP for West Dorset - Edward Morello - who attended Dorset Youth Pride! If only more of our political community would make the effort to meet, listen, understand, accept and support LGBT+ people - then what a better world it would be for all! (WGG 04/04/2025)
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https://www.purbeckgazette.co.uk/issue-334/ (page 26)
https://www.purbeckgazette.co.uk/issue-336/ (pages 22, 23, 27.)
The Purbeck Gazette also has in its 336 edition a story about LGBTQ+ Champion Sylvia Townsend, and the statue for her in Dorchester, plus a letter from Cllr Ben Wilson relating to Mr Gargraves above comments.
Note:-
It is not the first time (sadly) that local politicians have expressed Transphobic or similar negative views about LGBT+ people, particularly Transgender. The former local MP Mr Drax was far from complimentary in July 2023, writing in his then column in The Dorset Echo. He lost his seat in the following General Election. A local councillor also expressed similar negative views, mainly on social media. He is also no longer in office.
This is in great contrast to the new MP for South Dorset - Lloyd Hatton. Who contacted us - Weymouth Gay Group - and asked if he could attend our pub meetup which he did not long after being elected at the last General Election! Plus, the new MP for West Dorset - Edward Morello - who attended Dorset Youth Pride! If only more of our political community would make the effort to meet, listen, understand, accept and support LGBT+ people - then what a better world it would be for all! (WGG 04/04/2025)
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Beyond Reflections:- Trans+ Research Conference at Bournemouth University
Join us for an inspiring day dedicated to advancing research and understanding of trans+ experiences across diverse fields.
Who Should Attend?
Masters and PhD students wanting to learn from others across a wide range of fields, researchers and academics looking to share and develop their work, or anyone else looking for collaboration opportunities in this research field.
Why Attend?
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- Thursday 15 May 2025 09:00 17:00 Executive Business Centre, Lansdowne Campus 89 Holdenhurst Road Bournemouth, England, BH8 8EB
Join us for an inspiring day dedicated to advancing research and understanding of trans+ experiences across diverse fields.
Who Should Attend?
Masters and PhD students wanting to learn from others across a wide range of fields, researchers and academics looking to share and develop their work, or anyone else looking for collaboration opportunities in this research field.
Why Attend?
- Knowledge Sharing: Gain insights from the latest research findings and theoretical developments in trans+ studies.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with others working in the field, fostering collaborations and friendships.
- Awareness and Equity: Learn about current challenges faced by trans+ communities and how research can inform effective efforts towards equity.
- Supportive Environment: Engage in a welcoming space that values and uplifts trans+ voices and experiences.
- Community Building: Be part of a collective effort to support trans+ research and foster solidarity among diverse groups.
- Feedback on Research: Present your own work and receive constructive feedback from peers and experts.
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London Gay Mens Chorus - Chesil Rocks 21st June (posted here 01/04/2025)
Saturday Night Diva!
The wonderful London Gay Mens Chorus (LGMC) return to Chesil Rock this June to join a lineup of bands and comedy. Chesil Rocks has been raising funds for Samaritans in Weymouth for many years, and in a change for this year Weymouth Pavilion will be the venue.
Saturday Night Diva!
The wonderful London Gay Mens Chorus (LGMC) return to Chesil Rock this June to join a lineup of bands and comedy. Chesil Rocks has been raising funds for Samaritans in Weymouth for many years, and in a change for this year Weymouth Pavilion will be the venue.
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Tim and Hilary Warren, organisers said:-
"The London Gay Men's Chorus are returning and will be performing their very popular West End Saturday Night Diva Show. It’s no secret that people love to be entertained by the diva, such is the sparkle and power they command on stage, with their point blank refusal to compromise, despite societal expectations. At Chesil Rocks this year, an ensemble from the London Gay Men’s Chorus explores the fascination of divas through a musical journey encompassing over 75 years of music including from Aretha Franklin, Madonna, Lady Gaga and Diana Ross. This promises to be a joyful performance, with one of the UK’s best-loved vocal groups." |
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They added:- "Chesil Rocks 2025 will be on 21st June this year at the Pavilion Theatre in Weymouth. We have the most amazing day planned, with topline comedy led by compere Tom Glover and a variety of awesome musical acts including Jess Upton, Robbie McIntosh, Steve Wilson and friends, sensational rock covers band Balance of Power and the fabulous London Gay Men's Chorus. More acts are to be announced in the coming weeks. We are working really hard to create a similarly friendly vibe to our previous events, and aside from the diverse range of acts, there will be wonderful activities, food and drinks on offer. The event will once again be non-profit making, with all funds raised going to the Dorset branch of Samaritans, enabling them to worry less about fundraising, and focus more on what they do best."
Tickets are priced the same as they were last year and are available to purchase through the Box Office at Weymouth Pavilion
(https://weymouthpavilion.com/shows/chesil-rocks/)
Tickets are priced the same as they were last year and are available to purchase through the Box Office at Weymouth Pavilion
(https://weymouthpavilion.com/shows/chesil-rocks/)
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The Samaritans in Weymouth said:- "We have been very fortunate to have received funds from the Chesil Rocks music festival held every year in June. Most grateful to Tim and Hilary Warren for organising it to benefit Samaritans in Weymouth." Weymouth branch web site:- www.samaritans.org/branches/samaritans-dorset-weymouth You can visit the Weymouth branch here (check opening times) :- Samaritans Weymouth 13 King Street Weymouth Dorset DT4 7BJ. National helpline 116 123 National email Samaritans: [email protected] |
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group had a "Alan Turing Treasuer Hunt" stall (a chance to win the then new £50 note with Alan Turing on it!) at Chesil Rocks in 2022 helping to raise LGBT+ awareness and funds for The Samaritans.
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Poole Pride June 7th at Poole Lighthouse (posted here 28/03/2025)
The Lighhouse said- "Save the date - Poole Pride is set to return this Summer as a joyful celebration of the beautiful identities of all communities. With its home here at Lighthouse, come as you are and embrace a full day of inclusive entertainment. Immerse yourself in LGBTQ+ creativity, with talks, crafts and workshops, live comedy, cabaret and music. Explore an array of stands and meet with local organisations supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. New for 2025, the ‘gayleidh’ is sure to be a memorable highlight and there’s no shortage of other opportunities to get into the groove with a baby rave, silent disco and even a queer lunchtime recital. And be sure to visit Dorset-based-sewist Matt Wilding’s, Wings of Pride installation. Quilted in two pieces and based on an eagle’s wingspan, the wings are a celebration of Pride that can also be used to protect and comfort. Everyone is welcome at Poole Pride, a joyous LGBTQ+ festival filled with vibrant events for all ages – free for everyone to enjoy."
About Poole Pride
Now in its second year, Poole Pride was started in order to make a real and lasting impact on the town and the fact that it is back for a second year means if even just one LGBTQ+ person feels more seen, more valid, more welcomed, and more supported, it will be a success.
More info - https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/save-the-date-poole-pride-to-return/
and - https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/festival/lighthouse-is-proud-to-present-poole-pride-2025/
See report and pics from last year on our Poole Pride page here - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
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The Lighhouse said- "Save the date - Poole Pride is set to return this Summer as a joyful celebration of the beautiful identities of all communities. With its home here at Lighthouse, come as you are and embrace a full day of inclusive entertainment. Immerse yourself in LGBTQ+ creativity, with talks, crafts and workshops, live comedy, cabaret and music. Explore an array of stands and meet with local organisations supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. New for 2025, the ‘gayleidh’ is sure to be a memorable highlight and there’s no shortage of other opportunities to get into the groove with a baby rave, silent disco and even a queer lunchtime recital. And be sure to visit Dorset-based-sewist Matt Wilding’s, Wings of Pride installation. Quilted in two pieces and based on an eagle’s wingspan, the wings are a celebration of Pride that can also be used to protect and comfort. Everyone is welcome at Poole Pride, a joyous LGBTQ+ festival filled with vibrant events for all ages – free for everyone to enjoy."
About Poole Pride
Now in its second year, Poole Pride was started in order to make a real and lasting impact on the town and the fact that it is back for a second year means if even just one LGBTQ+ person feels more seen, more valid, more welcomed, and more supported, it will be a success.
More info - https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/save-the-date-poole-pride-to-return/
and - https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/festival/lighthouse-is-proud-to-present-poole-pride-2025/
See report and pics from last year on our Poole Pride page here - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
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Growing campaign to boycott BourneFree (posted here 01/03/2025)
In a recent post on social media, the organisers of Bournemouth Community Pride, not to be confused with Bournemouth Pride - Bournefree, have highlighted their issues with BourneFree.
In a recent post on social media, the organisers of Bournemouth Community Pride, not to be confused with Bournemouth Pride - Bournefree, have highlighted their issues with BourneFree.
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They said:- BourneFree have been called out for loads of problematic behaviour in the last couple of years, including having unethical sponsors like JP Morgan, funding fossil fuels and anti-trans legislation, LV=, an insurance company owned by Allianz that is supporting the genocide in Palestine, and BAE Systems, a literal weapons manufacturer. As well as cashing in on unethical sponsorships, BourneFree also charges an extortionate ticket price that prevents many folks from even attending Pride. They have also allowed organisations that harm marginalised folks to pinkwash at their events. |
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BourneFree have thoroughly lost sight of what Pride is about with them going so far as to ban all ‘protest materials’ from their events, and not even supporting or amplifying local trans organising.
BourneFree has not listened to the calls of the queer community, and we have no reason to believe that this year will be any different. Pride is a protest and needs to be for the queer community, not corporations or organisations that harm LGBTQ+ and other marginalised folks. Because we do not believe BourneFree has any desire or motivation to change what they’re doing, Bournemouth Community Pride will be taking place on the same day as BourneFree, as a free protest and celebration that all LGBTQ+ folks and allies are welcome to.
BourneFree has not listened to the calls of the queer community, and we have no reason to believe that this year will be any different. Pride is a protest and needs to be for the queer community, not corporations or organisations that harm LGBTQ+ and other marginalised folks. Because we do not believe BourneFree has any desire or motivation to change what they’re doing, Bournemouth Community Pride will be taking place on the same day as BourneFree, as a free protest and celebration that all LGBTQ+ folks and allies are welcome to.
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It is an encouragement to engage in boycotting corporate Pride and to take part in grassroots community events and really build community. With everything going on in the world, we need strong communities more than ever, not to be throwing a vacuous party as though fascism isn’t on the rise. If you want to facilitate something for Bournemouth Community Pride that requires support, assistance or other kinds of planning, reach out and let’s all try to make it happen. We will be posting more in the run-up to the Pride season, but for now, save the date for Saturday 12th July to take part in a free, liberatory and ethical Pride if you want somewhere to go instead of BourneFree. For more about Bournemouth Community Pride, with contact info, and how you can take part see our website page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-community-pride.html |
NOTE from Weymouth Gay Group (WGG). We publish the above for your info. Posting here does not necessarily mean approval by WGG. WGG would welcome a response from BourneFree. You can see BourneFree website here - (with some 2025 info) -www.bournefree.co.uk/
Pub Pride 2025 in Dorset (posted here 01/03/2025)
Pub Pride have recently emailed Weymouth Gay Group with some detials about the national Pub Pride weekend of 30th May.
It has had a varing amount of sucess in Dorset, with several pubs claiming to be taking part. Perhaps the best being at The Waterloo Pub (when under different management) a few years ago.
They say:- "We collaborate with venues and organisations to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion, create welcoming spaces, and enforce a zero-tolerance policy against LGBTQ+ discrimination and hate. We're not just a charity; we're a force for change. Working with Pubs and Venues to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion, and provide welcome spaces for the community.
Pub Pride have recently emailed Weymouth Gay Group with some detials about the national Pub Pride weekend of 30th May.
It has had a varing amount of sucess in Dorset, with several pubs claiming to be taking part. Perhaps the best being at The Waterloo Pub (when under different management) a few years ago.
They say:- "We collaborate with venues and organisations to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion, create welcoming spaces, and enforce a zero-tolerance policy against LGBTQ+ discrimination and hate. We're not just a charity; we're a force for change. Working with Pubs and Venues to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion, and provide welcome spaces for the community.
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Ask for Clive was established in 2019 in response to the increasing incidence of homophobia and transphobia in the UK. In our inaugural year, we forged partnerships with 2,000 venues, and our growth has been continuous ever since. In February 2020, we attained charitable status with the primary goal of fostering social inclusion within the LGBTQ+ community. We aim to work with Pubs and venues to eradicate discrimination towards the LGBTQ+ community and ensure a positive and inclusive environment for all. We launched Pub Pride in 2021 as a way for pubs and venues to celebrate the arrival of Pride Month with the community. We encourage venues to put on a night of entertainment with and for the community and to raise funds for the year round Ask For Clive Campaign." If you can get your local to take part, that would be brill! Please do let us know, so that we can help promote Pub Pride in Dorset. email [email protected] |
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You can read more about Pub Pride in Dorset on our website page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorset-pub-prides.html
And check out Pub Pride website here:- https://askforclive.com/
And check out Pub Pride website here:- https://askforclive.com/
Meta madness over LGBT goods (posted here 01/03/2025)
Meta, the owner of several social media sites, has recently caused concern and problems.
One Portland / Weymouth based company owner explained that they have had problems with LGBT related items and sales on their social media, after Meta said that their content would be restricted if it related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Meanwhile, Pink News reported:- "Last month, Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg announced that the tech giant would no longer moderate posts on topic such as immigration and gender “that are the subject of frequent political discourse and debate”, and replaced the independent fact-checking programme with a community notes system, similar to that seen on Elon Musk’s platform, X/Twitter."
More see Pink News:- Misterb&b founder claims Meta removed adverts with LGBTQ+ content: ‘It feels like censorship’
www.thepinknews.com/2025/02/27/misterbb-founder-claims-meta-removed-adverts-with-lgbtq-content-it-feels-like-censorship/
Meta, the owner of several social media sites, has recently caused concern and problems.
One Portland / Weymouth based company owner explained that they have had problems with LGBT related items and sales on their social media, after Meta said that their content would be restricted if it related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Meanwhile, Pink News reported:- "Last month, Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg announced that the tech giant would no longer moderate posts on topic such as immigration and gender “that are the subject of frequent political discourse and debate”, and replaced the independent fact-checking programme with a community notes system, similar to that seen on Elon Musk’s platform, X/Twitter."
More see Pink News:- Misterb&b founder claims Meta removed adverts with LGBTQ+ content: ‘It feels like censorship’
www.thepinknews.com/2025/02/27/misterbb-founder-claims-meta-removed-adverts-with-lgbtq-content-it-feels-like-censorship/
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Dorset Mind steps back from X (posted here 01/03/2025)
Dorset Mind steps back from X (posted here 01/03/2025)
Dorset Mind, who run a LGBT+ support group online, and also a meet up weekly in the Bournemouth area are stepping back from X.
In one of its last posts on X (formally known as twitter) Dorset Mind has said it is stepping back from the social platform.
Many groups and organisations have felt X is no longer a comfortable platform, with many migrating to Bluesky.
The Dorset Mind LGBT groups are unafected and still running.
Their statement is on the right here.
More info - https://dorsetmind.uk/
Note - Weymouth Gay Group is still on X (under review), however we do have an account on Bluesky which you can follow here: @weymouthgaygroup.bsky.social along with many other LGBT+ groups and organisations.
Little Tiny LGBTQIA+ Library Launches at B-side Portland
(posted here 28/02/2025) Written by Naomi Portland LGBTQIA
A new LGBTQIA+ library has opened in Portland in partnership with b-side, which runs an arts festival on the island every September. Members of the b-side ‘Queer Club’ which meets monthly, have come together to create a small library at B-side headquarters in Fortuneswell, with a cosy reading nook and selection of LGBTQ+ books. The group hope that the space will become a safe haven for LGBTQ+ people in the community and a valuable resource.
(posted here 28/02/2025) Written by Naomi Portland LGBTQIA
A new LGBTQIA+ library has opened in Portland in partnership with b-side, which runs an arts festival on the island every September. Members of the b-side ‘Queer Club’ which meets monthly, have come together to create a small library at B-side headquarters in Fortuneswell, with a cosy reading nook and selection of LGBTQ+ books. The group hope that the space will become a safe haven for LGBTQ+ people in the community and a valuable resource.
Photo with thanks to b -side arts
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Nat Wilding, one of the volunteer librarians said:
"Creating the library has been a true labour of love, driven by our vision of providing a safe space for our local LGBTQIA+ community. This haven welcomes those who are out, those who arent, and those who are questioning. We offer a discreet reading area, alongside leaflets and contact details for LGBTQIA+ charities to provide support when its needed most. With a growing collection of around 80 titles catering to all ages, we are deeply grateful for any donations to help us expand and enrich our resources." |
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At the launch of the ‘Little Tiny’ library on 26 February, the group created a stunning mural for the walls – led by artist Maddy Collymore inspired by local seaweed and sea creatures. Local poets Amelia, Naomi Wilcox-Lee and Peter Roe from the Jawbone Collective also shared their work before the library was announced officially open! The library can be found at b-side, 77 Fortuneswell, DT 5 1LY and will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 3pm – 6pm. Find out more at their website little.tinylibrary.co.uk/ WGG Comment:- This has been a beautiful example of several local LGBT+ organisations coming together along with many individuals to help see the launch of The little tiny LGBTQIA+ Library. It started some months ago with an email to Weymouth Gay Group asking if we would like 30 Lesbian books! We contacted B-side arts who came to the rescue and offered them the home you see now! So if you are having a clear out, and have LGBTQIA+ books to donate or if you wish to find a safe sanctuary in which to read, well here it is! |
Photo with thanks to b - side arts
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History Month Displays - Atrium surgery Dorch & Weymouth College (posted here 28/02/2025)
LGBT+ History Month has see events and displays nation wide. Here in Dorset as well as a display at Weymouth Library, both Weymouth College and The Atrium sergery in Dorchester put on displays.
For more Infomation about LGBT History Month see:- https://lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2025/
LGBT+ History Month has see events and displays nation wide. Here in Dorset as well as a display at Weymouth Library, both Weymouth College and The Atrium sergery in Dorchester put on displays.
For more Infomation about LGBT History Month see:- https://lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2025/
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Photo left (thanks Jonai) Atrium Dorchester. Above Weymouth College with thanks for photo
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Shock as Dorset NHS LGBT lead resigns (posted here 18/02/2025)
Dorsets LGBT+ Community are shocked to hear the Chair of Dorsets NHS LGBT+ group has resigned. Jonai De Silva who has worked for the Dorset NHS Health Care Trust for almost 20 years, has been a champion promoting LGBT+ issues and needs during that time for his clients and the wider LGBT+ community.
He said: - “I had a meeting yesterday within NHS. I spoke to my husband, Brian, last night and it is with a heavy heart that I am leaving the NHS LGBT staff network after a long time. I know that many people will be shocked to hear that.”
While the reasons behind his resignation are unclear, his enthusiasm and care have touched and supported many thorough his role as a NHS Community Mental Health Support worker.
Dorsets LGBT+ Community are shocked to hear the Chair of Dorsets NHS LGBT+ group has resigned. Jonai De Silva who has worked for the Dorset NHS Health Care Trust for almost 20 years, has been a champion promoting LGBT+ issues and needs during that time for his clients and the wider LGBT+ community.
He said: - “I had a meeting yesterday within NHS. I spoke to my husband, Brian, last night and it is with a heavy heart that I am leaving the NHS LGBT staff network after a long time. I know that many people will be shocked to hear that.”
While the reasons behind his resignation are unclear, his enthusiasm and care have touched and supported many thorough his role as a NHS Community Mental Health Support worker.
Soon after the announcement Alan Mercel-Sanca from the LGBT+ Network for Change said in a message to Jonai :-
“I am very sorry indeed to learn this and that you have found it absolutely necessary to do so. You have done so much for our community and in the NHS context for many years, and it has been a privilege to have been working with you in this.”
“I am very sorry indeed to learn this and that you have found it absolutely necessary to do so. You have done so much for our community and in the NHS context for many years, and it has been a privilege to have been working with you in this.”
Jonai – who has been described as a “One man walking Rio carnival” (Brazil is his origin) will be really missed with the NHS parade at the growing number of Pride events locally.
One of his many local successes, was the “Coming out of your shell” art exhibition, at which he encouraged his clients to produce some wonderful art work illustrating their struggles. (With mental health & LGBT+ issues)
Recently, Weymouth Gay Group have asked him / his NHS Trust what they are doing to promote LGBT+ History Month, with no information forth coming. While the NHS over in Poole Bournemouth Christchurch Hospitals have embraced the month (as reported below here on The Dorset LGBT+ Community News page).
He remains working in Mental Health with the local NHS, and perhaps on his off days he may wish to use his enthusiasm and skills supporting the many Dorset LGBT+ Community groups who really value him!
Valentines - Portland Hotel offers LGBT+ safe place (posted here 13/02/2025)
A Friend of Weymouth Gay Group, Martin recently said on WhatsApp:-
The Hotel Aqua in Castletown is now owned officially by me! We will be organising many inclusive/exclusive (should we be that?) LGBTQ+ events over the coming year and always open to suggestions too. One thing I realised is that Valentine’s Day is bearing down on us and it can be tricky to find a space we feel comfortable to take an old Flame or prospective new match. It can also be a tough day for those on their own, widowed, bereaved or who have just ‘not found the right one yet’ so we’re gonna have a long communal table for those Nicky NoMates of us who find ourselves alone but wanting to go out. Who knows, the perfect match may be sat next to you on Friday! Feel free to drop the hotel an email or call us up to book a table. We have a fine selection of local wines and bubbles too to match our menu. Dinner served from 5:30- 9:30 pm.
Thanks to Martin for photos below.
Above "Love is Love" from Gay Pride Shop (We WGG have purchased our flags etc from them) https://gayprideshop.co.uk/collections/our-best-selling-gay-pride-rainbow-accessories
A Friend of Weymouth Gay Group, Martin recently said on WhatsApp:-
The Hotel Aqua in Castletown is now owned officially by me! We will be organising many inclusive/exclusive (should we be that?) LGBTQ+ events over the coming year and always open to suggestions too. One thing I realised is that Valentine’s Day is bearing down on us and it can be tricky to find a space we feel comfortable to take an old Flame or prospective new match. It can also be a tough day for those on their own, widowed, bereaved or who have just ‘not found the right one yet’ so we’re gonna have a long communal table for those Nicky NoMates of us who find ourselves alone but wanting to go out. Who knows, the perfect match may be sat next to you on Friday! Feel free to drop the hotel an email or call us up to book a table. We have a fine selection of local wines and bubbles too to match our menu. Dinner served from 5:30- 9:30 pm.
Thanks to Martin for photos below.
Above "Love is Love" from Gay Pride Shop (We WGG have purchased our flags etc from them) https://gayprideshop.co.uk/collections/our-best-selling-gay-pride-rainbow-accessories
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Valentine's menu 10% off any food for ‘Rainbow Warriors’
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Start
Breaded brie Mussels Scallops Charcuturie platter |
Mains
Rump steak Roasted chicken in coconut magi curry sauce Oven baked hake Pork tomahawk steak with nutmeg mash and delicious home made cider gravy |
Desserts
Brandy snaps (can be gluten free) Choco brownie Cheesecake with fruit coulis Trillionaires Tart |
£7 starter
£10 charcuturie £16 mains £5 desserts We have a selection of vegan dishes and can match most dietary restrictions with notice. |
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The Hotel Aqua Castletown
Address:- Castletown, Portland DT5 1BD Phone: 01305 860269 |
Dorset NHS - LGBT+ History Month (posted here 10/02/2025)
Click on poster to enlarge
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In a post on X (formerly twitter) The University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust (@UHD_NHS) posted:-
February is LGBT+ AwarenessMonth. It's a time to celebrate the achievements of LGBT+ people, as well as raise awareness of the on-going struggles and discrimination that they face. Here's Mel to explain more (Poster left) More see:- https://www.uhd.nhs.uk/about-us/equality/staff-networks/pride |
Click on photo to enlarge
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Dorset Museum LGBT+ History Month. (posted here 07/02/2025)
For the past year, Dorset Museum & Art Gallery has been working to better document the David Brynley (1902 – 1981) and Norman Notley (1890 – 1980) archive. With advice from Professor Jana Funke, Maisie has curated a display of the Brynley and Notley archive to coincide with LGBT+ History Month this February 2025. The display brings together a selection of photographs, letters and diary entries to provide an overview of their personal and professional lives. Maisie said: “David and Norman were lifelong partners and being able to share their story has been so important as there are not many collections like this that give a glimpse into the lives of LGBTQ+ people from this time period.”The display will be on view in the People’s Dorset Gallery throughout February 2025 to coincide with LGBT+ History Month.
Info:- www.dorsetmuseum.org/david-brynley-and-norman-notley-archive/
See also Dorset Echo - "Dorset Museum documents life of gay couple in Corfe Castle"
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24910977.dorset-museum-documents-life-gay-couple-corfe-castle/
Dorset Museum High West Street Dorchester DT1 1XA. 01305 262735 [email protected]
BBC Dorset News:- Gay couples archive reveals peaceful life www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr4206lev04o
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For the past year, Dorset Museum & Art Gallery has been working to better document the David Brynley (1902 – 1981) and Norman Notley (1890 – 1980) archive. With advice from Professor Jana Funke, Maisie has curated a display of the Brynley and Notley archive to coincide with LGBT+ History Month this February 2025. The display brings together a selection of photographs, letters and diary entries to provide an overview of their personal and professional lives. Maisie said: “David and Norman were lifelong partners and being able to share their story has been so important as there are not many collections like this that give a glimpse into the lives of LGBTQ+ people from this time period.”The display will be on view in the People’s Dorset Gallery throughout February 2025 to coincide with LGBT+ History Month.
Info:- www.dorsetmuseum.org/david-brynley-and-norman-notley-archive/
See also Dorset Echo - "Dorset Museum documents life of gay couple in Corfe Castle"
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24910977.dorset-museum-documents-life-gay-couple-corfe-castle/
Dorset Museum High West Street Dorchester DT1 1XA. 01305 262735 [email protected]
BBC Dorset News:- Gay couples archive reveals peaceful life www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr4206lev04o
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Weymouth Gay Women
(posted here 27/01/2025) Its wonderful to have a range of groups locally for our LGBT+ Community. This much welcomed group for Gay Women started a couple of years ago and is led by Karen and Janet. They have had a number of Weymouth meetups in local venues. Nautico Lounge, Kings Arms, and Coffee Jazz. In an email to Weymouth Gay Group, Karen said:- We are a social group for LGBTQIA+ women based in Weymouth & surrounding areas. We meet up regularly for drinks, meals, coffee, walks etc. We now tend to be meeting weekly on Thursday's, our next one is this week 30th January 2025 from 6pm, the Kings Arms, Weymouth. This event may move around, so best to check out page directly for updates. The group have recently changed their name, and are also running a film night soon at Coffee Jazz. (see poster right) |
Please note - Organisers of above have asked us to point out that it is a womens only event
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They have a facebook page, but yet to have a website or other means of contact.
(Which is a great pity as most people dont do social media or FB!)
Link:- FB https://www.facebook.com/groups/1280567109276343
(Which is a great pity as most people dont do social media or FB!)
Link:- FB https://www.facebook.com/groups/1280567109276343
Queer In The Countryside (posted here 25/01/205)
While we can not share much about this Arts in Dorset event yet .....
We do know it will be running during the summer this year in Dorset!
And it will be something that many of you will be interested in and enjoy.
So please ensure you keep a weekly eye on our website events & news pages here for more info.
Bookmark this page (The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary) - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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While we can not share much about this Arts in Dorset event yet .....
We do know it will be running during the summer this year in Dorset!
And it will be something that many of you will be interested in and enjoy.
So please ensure you keep a weekly eye on our website events & news pages here for more info.
Bookmark this page (The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary) - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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Weymouth Library hosting LGBT+ History Month event (posted here 20/01/2025 updated 04/02/2025)
Weymouth Library
Great George St, Weymouth DT4 8NN |
Weymouth Library is one of many in Dorset to have a display for LGBT+ History Month.
The library staff here have been very supportive towards our community over the years, regularly providing space for several local LGBT groups and organisations to help promote the month. The display is expected to run for most of February. Huge thanks to all the staff there. For more Infomation about LGBT History Month see:- https://lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2025/ |
Brill to see our WGG leaflets in Weymouth Library, throughout the year.
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If you know of other Dorset events for LGBT History Month, please do let us know.
Tell us, tell everyone! email [email protected]
Teenage boy attacked in Weymouth in town centre hate crime
- our local community reacts (posted here 20/01/2025 - updated 21/01/2025 - updated 05/02/2025)
Extract from Dorset Echo report 20/01/2025
Read the full story here: - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24868556.teenage-boy-attacked-weymouth-town-centre-hate-crime/
A teenage boy has been attacked after being asked his sexual orientation in Weymouth town centre.
The victim, a 16-year-old, was headbutted by a man who had stopped and got out of a car, police said. It happened on the Esplanade near the King's Statue at the end of St Mary Street in the town centre. It is being treated as a hate crime by officers who said the incident had caused a 'great deal of distress' for the boy and his friends.
You can read the full news story here - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24868556.teenage-boy-attacked-weymouth-town-centre-hate-crime/
Update, with comments from Space Youth Project, Our local MP, and a town Councillor.
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24869602.community-appalled-attack-teenage-boy-weymouth/
Comment from Space Youth Project:-
A spokesperson for the group said: "We are appalled to hear that this incident has occurred and it reaffirms the need for continued support for the LGBT community, especially young people. Wouldn't it be brilliant if people could just be kind?"
Comment from Weymouth Gay Group: -
"Weymouth Gay Group are shocked about this report. We need a world with much more support, understanding, care and love towards the diversity we enjoy here in Dorset. We do have a helplines page on our website, with links to support like GALOP and Space Youth Project. Our thoughts are with the victim, at this time".
NOTE For help and assistance with Hate Crime, see our Weymouth Gay Group website helpline pages for information from Dorset Police and Galop. https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Update 05/02/2025 Dorset Echo :-
Teenager arrested after alleged attack on Weymouth Esplanade
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24912227.teenager-arrested-alleged-attack-weymouth-esplanade/
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- our local community reacts (posted here 20/01/2025 - updated 21/01/2025 - updated 05/02/2025)
Extract from Dorset Echo report 20/01/2025
Read the full story here: - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24868556.teenage-boy-attacked-weymouth-town-centre-hate-crime/
A teenage boy has been attacked after being asked his sexual orientation in Weymouth town centre.
The victim, a 16-year-old, was headbutted by a man who had stopped and got out of a car, police said. It happened on the Esplanade near the King's Statue at the end of St Mary Street in the town centre. It is being treated as a hate crime by officers who said the incident had caused a 'great deal of distress' for the boy and his friends.
You can read the full news story here - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24868556.teenage-boy-attacked-weymouth-town-centre-hate-crime/
Update, with comments from Space Youth Project, Our local MP, and a town Councillor.
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24869602.community-appalled-attack-teenage-boy-weymouth/
Comment from Space Youth Project:-
A spokesperson for the group said: "We are appalled to hear that this incident has occurred and it reaffirms the need for continued support for the LGBT community, especially young people. Wouldn't it be brilliant if people could just be kind?"
Comment from Weymouth Gay Group: -
"Weymouth Gay Group are shocked about this report. We need a world with much more support, understanding, care and love towards the diversity we enjoy here in Dorset. We do have a helplines page on our website, with links to support like GALOP and Space Youth Project. Our thoughts are with the victim, at this time".
NOTE For help and assistance with Hate Crime, see our Weymouth Gay Group website helpline pages for information from Dorset Police and Galop. https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Update 05/02/2025 Dorset Echo :-
Teenager arrested after alleged attack on Weymouth Esplanade
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24912227.teenager-arrested-alleged-attack-weymouth-esplanade/
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Poole Pride 2025 (posted here 20/01/2025)
The Lighthouse Arts center in Poole has recently confirmed that Poole Pride will return for 2025.
The date - thought to be early in June, is yet to be made public. Last year they hosted a range of events, both before and on their Pride day.
Check out our Pride page here for pics and reports from 2024 Poole Pride. https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
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The Lighthouse Arts center in Poole has recently confirmed that Poole Pride will return for 2025.
The date - thought to be early in June, is yet to be made public. Last year they hosted a range of events, both before and on their Pride day.
Check out our Pride page here for pics and reports from 2024 Poole Pride. https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
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Dorset LGBT+ Community Events 2025 (posted here 16/01/2025)
So what LGBT+ Dorset events "Float your Boat" ?
We have been looking through several websites for any LGBT+ events of interest taking place in Dorset this year.
We are blessed with around 30 plus regular monthly Dorset LGBT+ Community events for us all to enjoy. These are boosted by the many visiting LGBT+ groups to Dorset each year. We try to list many of them on our very popular Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
So what LGBT+ Dorset events "Float your Boat" ?
We have been looking through several websites for any LGBT+ events of interest taking place in Dorset this year.
We are blessed with around 30 plus regular monthly Dorset LGBT+ Community events for us all to enjoy. These are boosted by the many visiting LGBT+ groups to Dorset each year. We try to list many of them on our very popular Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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So, if its
Gay Caravan & Motorhome Club Gay Classic Car Group Gay Bikers Motorcycle Club Gay Birder's Club Gay Outdoor Club (LGBT) Sailing & Cruising Association Outdoor Lads Gay and Lesbian Underwater Group (Glug) - great name! The Geranium Trust |
Open Table Weymouth - LGTBQIA+ worship Portland LGBTQIA+ Artachats meet ups Weymouth LGBTQ Womens Group Allsorts Lesbian Group "This is me" Dorchester Transgender social group Space Youth Project Family Gender Identity Days Weymouth Gay Group ...and more! |
We hope to have them listed!
Its always good to welcome and embrace the many local and visiting LGBT+ Community groups and organisations.
Brill to see The Sailing & Cruising Association have an event later this year in May in Poole Harbour. See- https://gaysailing.org.uk/events
So what ever events "float your boat", we hope to have details about many of them on The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page during the year here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
See also our WGG page here with links to many of the groups listed above - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
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Its always good to welcome and embrace the many local and visiting LGBT+ Community groups and organisations.
Brill to see The Sailing & Cruising Association have an event later this year in May in Poole Harbour. See- https://gaysailing.org.uk/events
So what ever events "float your boat", we hope to have details about many of them on The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page during the year here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
See also our WGG page here with links to many of the groups listed above - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
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Dorchesters "This is Me" Transgender Group
- New Poole Pub meetups (posted here 16/01/205)
The Dorchester based Transgender social group has announced a new meetup venue in Poole. Posting on social media and on their website they said:-
"Another year and a bit of news we have a new meet once a month at the Acorn Pub, Creekmoor Poole.
Announcement additional meeting Acorn pub Creekmoor 7pm to 9pm 11th February 2025"
Links / more info:-
Website - https://www.thisismedorset.co.uk/
Phone Annabelle 074114 65007
(Please note - we are aware Annabelle is / has been in Dorchester Hospital, and we wish her a speedy recovery)
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- New Poole Pub meetups (posted here 16/01/205)
The Dorchester based Transgender social group has announced a new meetup venue in Poole. Posting on social media and on their website they said:-
"Another year and a bit of news we have a new meet once a month at the Acorn Pub, Creekmoor Poole.
Announcement additional meeting Acorn pub Creekmoor 7pm to 9pm 11th February 2025"
Links / more info:-
Website - https://www.thisismedorset.co.uk/
Phone Annabelle 074114 65007
(Please note - we are aware Annabelle is / has been in Dorchester Hospital, and we wish her a speedy recovery)
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Above photo copyright Weymouth Town Council. With thanks for use here.
Town Clock to go “rainbow”! (posted here 16/01/2025)
Weymouth Town Council have recently announced the charity groups whos colours will be shown on the towns Jubilee Clock on Weymouth's Esplanade during 2025.
The Dorset Echo reported (link below) : -
"A number of organisations have been selected to be part of the 2025 Jubilee Clock Light Up Scheme. On selected dates each month, the face of the Jubilee Clock on Weymouth seafront will be lit in a different colour, to represent one of the charities or organisations. The public were asked to send in their nominations and this year, 25 different organisations were put forward"
Of interest to our community is how Space Youth Project will be represented with rainbow colours in June, Pride month, during the week / weekend of Chesil Youth Pride! June 23rd – 30th. This will be another first for Weymouth and much welcomed visibility.
More see:-
Weymouth Town Council - https://www.weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk/news/successful-nominations-to-light-up-jubilee-clock-in-2025/
Dorset Echo - 16/01/2025- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24853204.organisations-revealed-jubilee-clock-weymouth-light-up/
Note Chesil Youth Pride takes place on Saturday 28th June at Weymouth College with stalls etc, followed by a Parade along Weymouth Esplanade. More info see our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/chesil-youth-pride.html
Weymouth Town Council have recently announced the charity groups whos colours will be shown on the towns Jubilee Clock on Weymouth's Esplanade during 2025.
The Dorset Echo reported (link below) : -
"A number of organisations have been selected to be part of the 2025 Jubilee Clock Light Up Scheme. On selected dates each month, the face of the Jubilee Clock on Weymouth seafront will be lit in a different colour, to represent one of the charities or organisations. The public were asked to send in their nominations and this year, 25 different organisations were put forward"
Of interest to our community is how Space Youth Project will be represented with rainbow colours in June, Pride month, during the week / weekend of Chesil Youth Pride! June 23rd – 30th. This will be another first for Weymouth and much welcomed visibility.
More see:-
Weymouth Town Council - https://www.weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk/news/successful-nominations-to-light-up-jubilee-clock-in-2025/
Dorset Echo - 16/01/2025- https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24853204.organisations-revealed-jubilee-clock-weymouth-light-up/
Note Chesil Youth Pride takes place on Saturday 28th June at Weymouth College with stalls etc, followed by a Parade along Weymouth Esplanade. More info see our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/chesil-youth-pride.html
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Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) LOVE the above! As you will have seen, WGG use a Rainbowed version of the Jubilee Clock tower as part of our groups logo! |
More LGBT+ groups eXit X! Posted here (09/01/2025)
The formerly Dorset based LGBT Network For Change (now National), has recently posted it is leaving the social platform X, formerly known as twitter.
The formerly Dorset based LGBT Network For Change (now National), has recently posted it is leaving the social platform X, formerly known as twitter.
In their final post they said:-
LGBT+ Network for Change @LGBTNet4Change
"R.I.P Twitter -- time to move on from this platform. Owned by a person attached to sociopathic supremacist yesteryear colonial era views, posting hate and division perspectives is not something we can tolerate. People like this need mental health help!"
Website https://lgbtnetwork4change.com/
LGBT+ Network for Change @LGBTNet4Change
"R.I.P Twitter -- time to move on from this platform. Owned by a person attached to sociopathic supremacist yesteryear colonial era views, posting hate and division perspectives is not something we can tolerate. People like this need mental health help!"
Website https://lgbtnetwork4change.com/
Weymouth Gay Group are presently still on X (under review), but we have not been posting there often. Like many LGBT+ groups, LGBT+ people, and other minorities, we have found Blue Sky to be a much more welcoming and an embracing new platform.
While free speech is welcomed, hate speech is not. Especially where it may lead to, or fuel violence towards minority groups and people in our community that we care about.
Weymouth Gay Group on Blue Sky - bsky.app/profile/weymouthgaygroup.bsky.social
While free speech is welcomed, hate speech is not. Especially where it may lead to, or fuel violence towards minority groups and people in our community that we care about.
Weymouth Gay Group on Blue Sky - bsky.app/profile/weymouthgaygroup.bsky.social
Meanwhile regarding Facebook the BBC reported .... (8 January 2025)
'Huge problems' with Instagram and Facebook changes, says oversight board
Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, she said there were "huge problems" with what had been announced, including the potential impact on the LGBTQ+ community, as well as gender and trans rights. "We are seeing many instances where hate speech can lead to real-life harm, so we will be watching that space very carefully," she added.
More see:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjwlwlqpwx7o
'Huge problems' with Instagram and Facebook changes, says oversight board
Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, she said there were "huge problems" with what had been announced, including the potential impact on the LGBTQ+ community, as well as gender and trans rights. "We are seeing many instances where hate speech can lead to real-life harm, so we will be watching that space very carefully," she added.
More see:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjwlwlqpwx7o
If you like being Social - why not join Weymouth Gay Group guys in the Pub!
Bibby legacy: Portland LGBTQIA+ Group! (posted here 08/01/2025)
What legacy will Bibby Stockholm leave as public funding stops?
Extract from BBC News Dorset report by Sophie Cridland
Full report see:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq8ql337qxvo
After a 18 months, the Bibby Stockholm barge's time in Portland looks to be coming to an end. As the barge is being prepared to be towed away, the BBC looks at the mark it has left on the communities of Weymouth and Portland.
Natasha Wilding supported the asylum seekers in an LGBTQI+ social group that was set up for some of the men living on board.
"As a trans woman I understand and can empathise how it feels to be part of a marginalised community," she told the BBC.
"I can't feel how they feel about being persecuted in their countries, about knowing that they are living under the threat of death if they live their authentic selves where they are." She got involved in the group which was funded by local arts organisation B-Side.
"I have lived on the island for 51 years and I have never seen any kind of LGBT community on the island as such, I've seen individuals but I have not seen a community group come together," she said.
Every week they do something social, like watching a film or having talks by local companies, and despite the asylum seekers having left the barge, she said the group has carried on. "It's become such a haven for the local community and without the Bibby Stockholm coming here in the first place, with the migrants who were fleeing because of their gender identity or sexual orientation, then this club would never have been formed," she added.
You can read the full report here:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq8ql337qxvo
For more information about the Portland LGBTQIA+ Group and its meetings, text Rocca on 07931183804 to book your place.
Rocca said ... Next up is an LGBTQIA+ film night curated by Ash and Cory on 29 January, 6-8.30pm, at the BnB-side!
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What legacy will Bibby Stockholm leave as public funding stops?
Extract from BBC News Dorset report by Sophie Cridland
Full report see:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq8ql337qxvo
After a 18 months, the Bibby Stockholm barge's time in Portland looks to be coming to an end. As the barge is being prepared to be towed away, the BBC looks at the mark it has left on the communities of Weymouth and Portland.
Natasha Wilding supported the asylum seekers in an LGBTQI+ social group that was set up for some of the men living on board.
"As a trans woman I understand and can empathise how it feels to be part of a marginalised community," she told the BBC.
"I can't feel how they feel about being persecuted in their countries, about knowing that they are living under the threat of death if they live their authentic selves where they are." She got involved in the group which was funded by local arts organisation B-Side.
"I have lived on the island for 51 years and I have never seen any kind of LGBT community on the island as such, I've seen individuals but I have not seen a community group come together," she said.
Every week they do something social, like watching a film or having talks by local companies, and despite the asylum seekers having left the barge, she said the group has carried on. "It's become such a haven for the local community and without the Bibby Stockholm coming here in the first place, with the migrants who were fleeing because of their gender identity or sexual orientation, then this club would never have been formed," she added.
You can read the full report here:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq8ql337qxvo
For more information about the Portland LGBTQIA+ Group and its meetings, text Rocca on 07931183804 to book your place.
Rocca said ... Next up is an LGBTQIA+ film night curated by Ash and Cory on 29 January, 6-8.30pm, at the BnB-side!
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LGBT+ Library for Weymouth & Portland (posted here 01/01/2025)
Have you ever wished to find LGBT+ books to borrow? Or a home for your old ones?
Now you can locally!
With huge thanks to "B" who contacted Weymouth Gay Group, asking if we knew anyone interested finding a home for Lesbian books (suggesting they are not perhaps charity shop matterial). We contacted Portland B-side who came to the rescue.
Our friend Rocca at B-side Arts has made a welcoming space for them.
Lets help fill the sheft up with more!
So if you are doing a spring clean soon, and have a few LGBT+ books looking for a new home, why not help out this project by adding yours. To donate, or borrow books, you can contact Rocca here:- text Rocca on 07931183804
Note:-
Rocca
Runs The Artachat - Portland LGBTQ+ meetups at B-side on Portland, a regular very welcoming group for all LGBTQIA+ people.
Dorset Library service
In the past , Weymouth (and other Dorset Libraries) have promoted our community and hosted LGBT+ displays for the public.
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Now you can locally!
With huge thanks to "B" who contacted Weymouth Gay Group, asking if we knew anyone interested finding a home for Lesbian books (suggesting they are not perhaps charity shop matterial). We contacted Portland B-side who came to the rescue.
Our friend Rocca at B-side Arts has made a welcoming space for them.
Lets help fill the sheft up with more!
So if you are doing a spring clean soon, and have a few LGBT+ books looking for a new home, why not help out this project by adding yours. To donate, or borrow books, you can contact Rocca here:- text Rocca on 07931183804
Note:-
Rocca
Runs The Artachat - Portland LGBTQ+ meetups at B-side on Portland, a regular very welcoming group for all LGBTQIA+ people.
Dorset Library service
In the past , Weymouth (and other Dorset Libraries) have promoted our community and hosted LGBT+ displays for the public.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Weymouth Gay Group welcomes in New Year! (posted here 01/01/2025)
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Weymouth Gay Group guys enjoyed the festive season with their regular Christmas meal, (Ship, right) .... .... and a fun night out! In Weymouth on New years eve (pic left) For Weymouth Gay Group events check out our home page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/ |
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Your key LGBT+ not to miss Dorset Events in 2025! (posted here 01/01/2025)
LGBT+ History Month - February 2025
Local & national events.
Dorset events:-
We hope to list them above in our Events Diary listings.
In the past Shire Hall and other venues have run events
Local & national events.
Dorset events:-
We hope to list them above in our Events Diary listings.
In the past Shire Hall and other venues have run events
LGBT+ History Month is for everyone; whether you work in education, a museum, library or art gallery, a business, a service, are a member of a network/social group or an individual.
It is celebrated every February across the UK, and was founded in 2004
The 2025 UK LGBT+ History Month theme is: Activism and Social Change
History Month website- lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2025/
It is celebrated every February across the UK, and was founded in 2004
The 2025 UK LGBT+ History Month theme is: Activism and Social Change
History Month website- lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2025/
IDAHOBIT Day 2025! Events world wide
Perhaps in Dorset too. Why not run one!
May 17th 2024 Info - https://may17.org/
Perhaps in Dorset too. Why not run one!
May 17th 2024 Info - https://may17.org/
Pub Pride - Friday May 30th 2025
Nationally and locally it runs again over the weekend of Friday 30th / Saturday 31st May 2024 (local details tbc - early May we hope to have an update)
Nationally and locally it runs again over the weekend of Friday 30th / Saturday 31st May 2024 (local details tbc - early May we hope to have an update)
This annual celebration welcomes in Pride month, and is run nationally by "Ask for Clive". 200 - 300 venues nationwide.
2023 had a record of THREE Pub Prides in Dorset! They were: - Weymouth - Wyke Smugglers, Dorchester - Hardy's, Swanage - The Globe. More Dorset Pub Pride info on our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/weymouth-pub-pride.html
It is hoped more Dorset venues will take part in 2025, as 2024 was not a good year locally. Why not get your local pub to join in!
This is a brill local event for you to run, attend support and enjoy!
Links:-
Ask For Clive https://askforclive.com/
Ask For Clive X (aka twitter) - https://twitter.com/clive_ask
2023 had a record of THREE Pub Prides in Dorset! They were: - Weymouth - Wyke Smugglers, Dorchester - Hardy's, Swanage - The Globe. More Dorset Pub Pride info on our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/weymouth-pub-pride.html
It is hoped more Dorset venues will take part in 2025, as 2024 was not a good year locally. Why not get your local pub to join in!
This is a brill local event for you to run, attend support and enjoy!
Links:-
Ask For Clive https://askforclive.com/
Ask For Clive X (aka twitter) - https://twitter.com/clive_ask
Poole Pride
Saturday 7th June 2025
This new Dorset Pride ran for the first time in 2024. It will return in 2025.
Venue:- The Lighthouse Poole.
See our Pride page here for more info :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
Chesil Youth Pride Saturday 28 June 2025
Back for its third year in 2025!
It first took place in June 2023, and was the first ever Pride event with a Parade along Weymouth Esplanade!
300+ LGBT+ people and allies in the Parade last year! Join in and enjoy!
Organised by Dorset Council, Space Youth Poject and Weymouth College which hoasts a number of LGBT+ stalls.
Info & last years pics - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/chesil-youth-pride.html
Back for its third year in 2025!
It first took place in June 2023, and was the first ever Pride event with a Parade along Weymouth Esplanade!
300+ LGBT+ people and allies in the Parade last year! Join in and enjoy!
Organised by Dorset Council, Space Youth Poject and Weymouth College which hoasts a number of LGBT+ stalls.
Info & last years pics - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/chesil-youth-pride.html
Bournemouth Pride Saturday 12th July 2025 Bourne Free
DORSETS BIGGEST ANNUAL LGBT+ EVENT!
in Meyrick Park Bournemouth. bournefree.co.uk/
DORSETS BIGGEST ANNUAL LGBT+ EVENT!
in Meyrick Park Bournemouth. bournefree.co.uk/
HUGE parade through Bournemouth with many Dorset LGBT+ community groups taking part.
You can see lots of pics from previous years, and read about the day on our Pride page.
A group of us from Weymouth / Dorchester normally go every year on the train, and you are welcomed to join us at Dorset's biggest annual LGBT event. You can read our report of last years day, plus links to over 250 pics!
here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
You can see lots of pics from previous years, and read about the day on our Pride page.
A group of us from Weymouth / Dorchester normally go every year on the train, and you are welcomed to join us at Dorset's biggest annual LGBT event. You can read our report of last years day, plus links to over 250 pics!
here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
Bournemouth Community Pride Saturday 12th July 2025
Sky from Bournemouth Community Pride said:-
"We ran Bournemouth Community Pride for the first time this year (2024), back in the gardens again, for free, as an open community event and bringing pride back to its grassroots protest origins. We plan to do the same thing next year (2025) as an alternative to Bourne Free's ticketed Saturday event for anyone who is not satisfied with what Bourne Free has to offer or for folks who can't afford it, and I can give more details closer to the time."
Venue:- Bournemouth Lower Gardens
More info :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-community-pride.html
Sky from Bournemouth Community Pride said:-
"We ran Bournemouth Community Pride for the first time this year (2024), back in the gardens again, for free, as an open community event and bringing pride back to its grassroots protest origins. We plan to do the same thing next year (2025) as an alternative to Bourne Free's ticketed Saturday event for anyone who is not satisfied with what Bourne Free has to offer or for folks who can't afford it, and I can give more details closer to the time."
Venue:- Bournemouth Lower Gardens
More info :- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-community-pride.html
Sherborne Pride - Sunday 6th July 2025
This first ran last year, and was AMAZING! Well worth attending as it returns for 2025
Parade through town & stalls in Pageant Gardens, Sherborne & lots more!
Weymouth Gay Group had a stall here last year, and loved it!
See our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html
This first ran last year, and was AMAZING! Well worth attending as it returns for 2025
Parade through town & stalls in Pageant Gardens, Sherborne & lots more!
Weymouth Gay Group had a stall here last year, and loved it!
See our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html
Dorset Youth Pride 2025
Shire Hall Dorchester
It is unknown yet (Dec 2024) if this much liked Youth foucused Pride event will run in 2025, following a number of changes at Shire Hall. We hope it does, as it has been very much welcomed by the young people attending. You can see pics from past years on our Pride page here:-
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorset-youth-pride.html
Shire Hall Dorchester
It is unknown yet (Dec 2024) if this much liked Youth foucused Pride event will run in 2025, following a number of changes at Shire Hall. We hope it does, as it has been very much welcomed by the young people attending. You can see pics from past years on our Pride page here:-
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorset-youth-pride.html
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Please make sure you check out all our other pages, lots of Dorset lgbt events, Dorset lgbt news, helplines and Prides in Dorset info!
This page was last updated 15/12/2025 © Weymouth Gay Group 2026 email :- [email protected]
Looking for a helpline or support?
Check out our Helplines page we have lots of helpful links, both local and national for you or someone you may know.
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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Please make sure you check out all our other pages, lots of Dorset lgbt events, Dorset lgbt news, helplines and Prides in Dorset info!
This page was last updated 15/12/2025 © Weymouth Gay Group 2026 email :- [email protected]
Looking for a helpline or support?
Check out our Helplines page we have lots of helpful links, both local and national for you or someone you may know.
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
