|
Welcome to our very popular :- THE DORSET LGBT+ COMMUNITY NEWS for 2026 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!
Below we have all your DORSET LGBT+ COMMUNITY NEWS during 2026!
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 2025, we reported on over 100 Dorset LGBT+ Community news stories.
You can access news from past years (going back to 2019!) from the top pull down menu (on your laptop /PC)
*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
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 2026!
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 2025, we reported on over 100 Dorset LGBT+ Community news stories.
You can access news from past years (going back to 2019!) from the top pull down menu (on your laptop /PC)
*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
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!
Oftern over 40 events listed every month
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!
**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Over May, June & July 2025 we listed a WHOPPING 240+ local Dorset LGBT+ Community events on our events page!
Oftern over 40 events listed every month
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!
**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Here are your 2026 headlines ...
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 on your laptop)
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 on your laptop)
|
* Space Youth Project nominated for Local Hero awards
- by MP! * The SEVEN Dorset Prides 2026 - your essential update * Two Black Boys in Paradise - Bournemouth Arts University celebrates Bafta Film Awards * New Blandford LGBTQ+ Peer Support Group - meeting in The Crown Hotel * Weymouth Gay Women - meeting changes * Sandy West - a true ally. Tribute. - a councillor for all! * Horton gone - after last years phobic remarks - Ex Portland Councillor speaks out, and so does Portlands LGBT+ Community! * Weymouth Library - LGBT+ History Month display * It's SO easy ..... so why all the fuss? - Weymouth Toilet signs * LGBT Celebrity helps Giant land! - in Dorset! |
* Breaking news! Three days of Pride!
- Bournemouth Pride - Bourne Free 2026 dates & info * Diva on Portland! - new Creative Retreat * LGBTQ+ Community Heritage Celebration - Dorchester part of LGBT+ History Month * RNAS Yeovilton - LGBT+ History Month Event * Dorset Sexual health Survey - by Public Health teams at BCP and Dorset Councils * Pride poster 2026 - the SEVEN Dorset Prides, 2026 info * Weymouth Gay Group 18! - how should we celebrate? * Poole Pride present Suzi Ruffell at Lighthouse - Saturday June 6th 2026 * Your key LGBT+ not to miss Dorset Events in 2026! - Prides and more! |
Please note:-
News story listing or views expressed do not necessarily mean approval by Weymouth Gay Group, or anyone who attends WGG. We publish them here for your interest. They often spark debate around our Pub tables, to which you are (politely) welcomed to express your own views. (See our group guidelines)
Weymouth Gay Group is not responsible for other websites that we may link to. Contact them directly if you have any concerns.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
News story listing or views expressed do not necessarily mean approval by Weymouth Gay Group, or anyone who attends WGG. We publish them here for your interest. They often spark debate around our Pub tables, to which you are (politely) welcomed to express your own views. (See our group guidelines)
Weymouth Gay Group is not responsible for other websites that we may link to. Contact them directly if you have any concerns.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Space Youth Project nominated for Local Hero awards - by MP! (posted here 06/03/20206)
Dorsets Space Youth Project reported in their recent newsletter .....
Vicki Slade, MP for mid-Dorset and North Poole, wrote to ‘Helen and the team’ on official House of Commons headed paper just before Christmas to congratulate us. We were even sent a fab certificate ‘in recognition of [our] contribution to mid Dorset and North Poole’.
Last summer, Vicki Slade MP had invited constituents to nominate people and groups who ‘stand out for making a real difference in their
communities’. In her letter, Vicki Slade MP thanked us for all our hard work, saying: ‘This nomination is for the volunteers that help run groups for the LGBTQ+ young people and their families and provide an invaluable service’
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Dorsets Space Youth Project reported in their recent newsletter .....
Vicki Slade, MP for mid-Dorset and North Poole, wrote to ‘Helen and the team’ on official House of Commons headed paper just before Christmas to congratulate us. We were even sent a fab certificate ‘in recognition of [our] contribution to mid Dorset and North Poole’.
Last summer, Vicki Slade MP had invited constituents to nominate people and groups who ‘stand out for making a real difference in their
communities’. In her letter, Vicki Slade MP thanked us for all our hard work, saying: ‘This nomination is for the volunteers that help run groups for the LGBTQ+ young people and their families and provide an invaluable service’
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
|
The SEVEN Dorset Prides 2026 - update
(posted here 28/02/2026 poster updated 02/03/2026) We are so pleased that more Pride info for Dorsets SEVEN Prides is slowly coming through This has helped us to update our popular Pride poster (on right) Dorchester Town Council have recently confirmed that their Dorchester Pop Up Pride will be running again this year. However, without the Pride Picnic. They had, and we are sure will have, a huge variety of events running throughout June. Hoisted by our local LGBT+ Community (more info nearer the time). Weymouth Gay Group had a "Meals Out" event at Wagamamas as part of this last year, which we hope to repeat. The Chesil Youth Pride recently confirmed their date. This Pride offers loads of support for young LGBTQIA+ people. Something many of us would have liked years ago. Don't miss the parade along Weymouth Esplanade! 300+ people last year! Bournemouth Pride are having a three day event, with a (18+) party on the Friday and family day on the Sunday. Welcoming in Pride month every year is Pub Pride Friday May 31st. Recent years this has been very poor in Dorset. It's YOUR chance to get your local pub embracing Pride and running your own Pride! |
|
Loads more Dorset Pride info, see our Pride pages, with 17 pages from all the Dorset Prides, past, present & future:-
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Two Black Boys in Paradise.
- Bournemouth Arts University celebrates Bafta Film Awards (posted here 23/02/2026, updated 26/02/2026)
The BBC reported:-
"A university has paid tribute to a tutor and graduate whose productions scooped accolades at the Bafta Film Awards."
Visiting tutor on the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) Creative Writing degree, Dean Atta, won Best Short Animation for Two Black Boys in Paradise.
Two Black Boys in Paradise, a short animated film based on a poem by Dean Atta, follows the love story of Eden and DulaTwo Black Boys in Paradise was written and executive produced by Atta, telling the story of two young gay black men Eden, 19, and Dula,18.
Their journey, imagined as a "paradise free from shame and judgement", was adapted from a poem Atta wrote, inspired by his own religious upbringing.
The film will be screened as part of a special headline event which Atta is due to attend at the Bournemouth Writing Festival next month.
Pink News reported:-
“It’s been on such an incredible journey,” Atta told Queerly on the red carpet at the BAFTAs. “I saw Black and queer stories but they were always tragedies so I’m so glad we have the opportunity to tell a joyous story. There are some struggles within our story but they overcome and they’re celebrated and they’re joyous at the end and that’s what I needed to see when I was younger,” he added.
Atta shared a similar sentiment on stage while accepting the BAFTA, explaining how he had grown up without much positive Black and queer representation. Jackson ( producer) told Queerly that, after going through school under Margaret Thatcher’s reviled Section 28 law, which forbade the “promotion” of homosexuality by local authority institutions including schools, he didn’t come out until age 30.
“My whole school life, being queer wasn’t allowed to be talked about in a positive way. I really wanted to make a queer film to help me along my journey of self acceptance and also then to put something out into the world that other people can see and feel seen,” he explained.
Links:-
You can also see it here via Channel 4 - https://www.channel4.com/programmes/two-black-boys-in-paradise
BBC News - www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c7vjl665394o
Pink News - https://www.thepinknews.com/2026/02/23/two-black-boys-in-paradise-baftas-2026-queer-film/
Note:- if you like Film Nights, you might like the Portland LGBT+ Side, who showed this film along with a lot of others, a few weeks ago at one of their monthly meet ups.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
- Bournemouth Arts University celebrates Bafta Film Awards (posted here 23/02/2026, updated 26/02/2026)
The BBC reported:-
"A university has paid tribute to a tutor and graduate whose productions scooped accolades at the Bafta Film Awards."
Visiting tutor on the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) Creative Writing degree, Dean Atta, won Best Short Animation for Two Black Boys in Paradise.
Two Black Boys in Paradise, a short animated film based on a poem by Dean Atta, follows the love story of Eden and DulaTwo Black Boys in Paradise was written and executive produced by Atta, telling the story of two young gay black men Eden, 19, and Dula,18.
Their journey, imagined as a "paradise free from shame and judgement", was adapted from a poem Atta wrote, inspired by his own religious upbringing.
The film will be screened as part of a special headline event which Atta is due to attend at the Bournemouth Writing Festival next month.
Pink News reported:-
“It’s been on such an incredible journey,” Atta told Queerly on the red carpet at the BAFTAs. “I saw Black and queer stories but they were always tragedies so I’m so glad we have the opportunity to tell a joyous story. There are some struggles within our story but they overcome and they’re celebrated and they’re joyous at the end and that’s what I needed to see when I was younger,” he added.
Atta shared a similar sentiment on stage while accepting the BAFTA, explaining how he had grown up without much positive Black and queer representation. Jackson ( producer) told Queerly that, after going through school under Margaret Thatcher’s reviled Section 28 law, which forbade the “promotion” of homosexuality by local authority institutions including schools, he didn’t come out until age 30.
“My whole school life, being queer wasn’t allowed to be talked about in a positive way. I really wanted to make a queer film to help me along my journey of self acceptance and also then to put something out into the world that other people can see and feel seen,” he explained.
Links:-
You can also see it here via Channel 4 - https://www.channel4.com/programmes/two-black-boys-in-paradise
BBC News - www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c7vjl665394o
Pink News - https://www.thepinknews.com/2026/02/23/two-black-boys-in-paradise-baftas-2026-queer-film/
Note:- if you like Film Nights, you might like the Portland LGBT+ Side, who showed this film along with a lot of others, a few weeks ago at one of their monthly meet ups.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
New Blandford LGBTQ+ Peer Support Group (posted here 23/02/2026)
This newish group say on their Facebook page -
"A support group for members of the LGBTQIA+ community in and around Blandford forum. We offer a friendly, relaxed environment for our amazing community as well as signposting for help a guidance from other organizations"
They have been in touch with Weymouth Gay Group, and we are delighted to welcome them to the family of Dorset LGBT+ Community Groups. They have been seeking advice about running a LGBT+ social group, to which we have been very happy to advise. We hope they will all join us all in The Swan on a Monday soon.
They have been meeting up in The Crown Hotel West St, Blandford Forum DT11 7AJ on Fridays.
FB page - https://www.facebook.com/groups/blandfordlgbtq
See also our WGG page "local & regional groups" weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
This newish group say on their Facebook page -
"A support group for members of the LGBTQIA+ community in and around Blandford forum. We offer a friendly, relaxed environment for our amazing community as well as signposting for help a guidance from other organizations"
They have been in touch with Weymouth Gay Group, and we are delighted to welcome them to the family of Dorset LGBT+ Community Groups. They have been seeking advice about running a LGBT+ social group, to which we have been very happy to advise. We hope they will all join us all in The Swan on a Monday soon.
They have been meeting up in The Crown Hotel West St, Blandford Forum DT11 7AJ on Fridays.
FB page - https://www.facebook.com/groups/blandfordlgbtq
See also our WGG page "local & regional groups" weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/local--regional-lgbt-groups.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Weymouth Gay Women - meeting changes (posted here 23/02/2026)
The Weymouth Women's Group have recently had a change in their meetup schedule. They used to meet up weekly in town, but we hear that has changed. Weymouth Gay Group has contacted them for up to date info, and we await a reply.
They have a FB page here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1280567109276343
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
The Weymouth Women's Group have recently had a change in their meetup schedule. They used to meet up weekly in town, but we hear that has changed. Weymouth Gay Group has contacted them for up to date info, and we await a reply.
They have a FB page here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1280567109276343
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Sandy West - a true ally (posted here 14/02/2026)
- a councillor for all!
It is with great sadness that we pay tribute to Sandy West who passed away. She was a councillor with Portland Town Council.
She was also a real Community Champion, both with her time at Weymouth's ASDA, and as a councillor locally helping Portland people for many years. She took active roles in many local events including the Olympics, and Weymouth & Portland first Pride (in 2019).
She remains a shining star illustrating exactly what every local community needs with a councillor. A much needed lesson for those up for any future election, and also perhaps some who have been elected in the past!
Links:-
Dorset Echo : -
Tributes paid to Portland Town Councillor Sandy West
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25848756.tributes-paid-portland-town-councillor-sandy-west/
Asda honour community champion Cllr Sandy West in tribute
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25854463.asda-honour-community-champion-cllr-sandy-west-tribute/
- a councillor for all!
It is with great sadness that we pay tribute to Sandy West who passed away. She was a councillor with Portland Town Council.
She was also a real Community Champion, both with her time at Weymouth's ASDA, and as a councillor locally helping Portland people for many years. She took active roles in many local events including the Olympics, and Weymouth & Portland first Pride (in 2019).
She remains a shining star illustrating exactly what every local community needs with a councillor. A much needed lesson for those up for any future election, and also perhaps some who have been elected in the past!
Links:-
Dorset Echo : -
Tributes paid to Portland Town Councillor Sandy West
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25848756.tributes-paid-portland-town-councillor-sandy-west/
Asda honour community champion Cllr Sandy West in tribute
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25854463.asda-honour-community-champion-cllr-sandy-west-tribute/
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Horton gone - after last years phobic remarks (posted here 12/02/2026, updated 14/02/2026 updated 21/02/2026)
Ex Portland Councillor speaks out, and so does Portland's LGBT+ Community!
Scott Horton was a Portland Town Councillor, who last year voiced his negative views around our King attending a sevices memorial event for LGBT+ people who served our country. He went on to express phobic comments on his personal social media.
This was met with shock and an outpouring of comments particually from Portlands lgbt+ Community. Followed we hear by complaints to Dorset Council. (Dorset Council are the responsible body to look into complains against all councillors including Town Councillors).
It would appear, although we may not be fully correct, that the result of Dorset Councils investigations have promted his resigation.
Update - this appears to be true! *
Google / AI says:-
"Dorset town councillors must adhere to a strict Code of Conduct based on the LGA Model Councillor Code of Conduct 2020, focusing on integrity, objectivity, accountability, and respect. They must treat others politely, avoid bullying or harassment, act without bias, and properly register interests and gifts over £50."
We would like to suggest that in a world where minority communities are feeling more vulnerable, persons in public office need to understand and support them, as well as everyone in the communities they represent.
What are your views? You are welcomed to share them (politely) around our pub tables ...
Some suggested back ground reading .....
Links:-
* 15/02/206 Dorset Echo:- Portland councillor stepped down during misconduct probe
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25847185.portland-councillor-stepped-misconduct-probe/
The Dorset LGBT+ Community News 2025 (updated 21/02/2026)
Councillor accused of bringing disrepute to Portland Town Council - Over negative LGBT+ remarks
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2025.html
12/02/206 Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25845747.scott-horton-explains-resigned-town-councillor/
11/02/2026 Dorset Eye:-
https://dorseteye.com/at-what-point-does-political-ignorance-reach-the-threshold-of-idiocy-i-give-you-ex-portland-councillor-scott-horton-and-his-supporters/
10/02/2026 Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25837159.portland-town-councillor-scott-horton-resigns-6-months/
04/12/2025 Dorset Eye:-
https://dorseteye.com/portland-councillor-scott-horton-is-spreading-lies-and-misinformation-regarding-asylum-seekers/
22/10/2025 Dorset Eye:-
https://dorseteye.com/a-crisis-of-accountability-portland-town-council-faces-backlash-over-bigoted-councillor/
29/10/2025 Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25578767.portland-town-councillor-shares-homophobic-facebook-post/
Ex Portland Councillor speaks out, and so does Portland's LGBT+ Community!
Scott Horton was a Portland Town Councillor, who last year voiced his negative views around our King attending a sevices memorial event for LGBT+ people who served our country. He went on to express phobic comments on his personal social media.
This was met with shock and an outpouring of comments particually from Portlands lgbt+ Community. Followed we hear by complaints to Dorset Council. (Dorset Council are the responsible body to look into complains against all councillors including Town Councillors).
It would appear, although we may not be fully correct, that the result of Dorset Councils investigations have promted his resigation.
Update - this appears to be true! *
Google / AI says:-
"Dorset town councillors must adhere to a strict Code of Conduct based on the LGA Model Councillor Code of Conduct 2020, focusing on integrity, objectivity, accountability, and respect. They must treat others politely, avoid bullying or harassment, act without bias, and properly register interests and gifts over £50."
We would like to suggest that in a world where minority communities are feeling more vulnerable, persons in public office need to understand and support them, as well as everyone in the communities they represent.
What are your views? You are welcomed to share them (politely) around our pub tables ...
Some suggested back ground reading .....
Links:-
* 15/02/206 Dorset Echo:- Portland councillor stepped down during misconduct probe
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25847185.portland-councillor-stepped-misconduct-probe/
The Dorset LGBT+ Community News 2025 (updated 21/02/2026)
Councillor accused of bringing disrepute to Portland Town Council - Over negative LGBT+ remarks
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2025.html
12/02/206 Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25845747.scott-horton-explains-resigned-town-councillor/
11/02/2026 Dorset Eye:-
https://dorseteye.com/at-what-point-does-political-ignorance-reach-the-threshold-of-idiocy-i-give-you-ex-portland-councillor-scott-horton-and-his-supporters/
10/02/2026 Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25837159.portland-town-councillor-scott-horton-resigns-6-months/
04/12/2025 Dorset Eye:-
https://dorseteye.com/portland-councillor-scott-horton-is-spreading-lies-and-misinformation-regarding-asylum-seekers/
22/10/2025 Dorset Eye:-
https://dorseteye.com/a-crisis-of-accountability-portland-town-council-faces-backlash-over-bigoted-councillor/
29/10/2025 Dorset Echo:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25578767.portland-town-councillor-shares-homophobic-facebook-post/
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Weymouth Library History Month display (posted here 09/02/2026)
Always great to see our local Dorset Library taking part in History Month.
They have a display of LGBT+ books along with some information relating to LGBT+ History Month.
They are very good supporting our group (with our leaflets there throughout the year), and the local LGBT+ Community.
Do you know of other Dorset events / displays for History Month in Dorset? If so please do let us know.
email [email protected]
More info about LGBT+ History Month - lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2026/
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Always great to see our local Dorset Library taking part in History Month.
They have a display of LGBT+ books along with some information relating to LGBT+ History Month.
They are very good supporting our group (with our leaflets there throughout the year), and the local LGBT+ Community.
Do you know of other Dorset events / displays for History Month in Dorset? If so please do let us know.
email [email protected]
More info about LGBT+ History Month - lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2026/
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
It's SO easy ..... so why all the fuss? (posted here 09/02/2026)
We are loving the new signs that have appeared on Weymouth Esplanade Toilets!
Being very inclusive and embracing all, including mermaids! Thank you Weymouth Town Council.
There has been a lot of unnecessary fuss and unfounded fear in recent years about Transgender people and the "Toilet debate". So this is very refreshing and a step in the right direction. Planes, trains and even our own homes have multi person use space! It's so easy to provide facilities for all without the fuss.
What are your views? You are welcomed to share them (politely) around our pub tables ...
We are loving the new signs that have appeared on Weymouth Esplanade Toilets!
Being very inclusive and embracing all, including mermaids! Thank you Weymouth Town Council.
There has been a lot of unnecessary fuss and unfounded fear in recent years about Transgender people and the "Toilet debate". So this is very refreshing and a step in the right direction. Planes, trains and even our own homes have multi person use space! It's so easy to provide facilities for all without the fuss.
What are your views? You are welcomed to share them (politely) around our pub tables ...
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
|
LGBT Celebrity helps Giant land! (posted here 07/02/2026)
Stephen Fry, the well known actor and writer, was one of many who helped The National Trust buy land around Dorsets famous Cerne Abbas Giant. The National Trust launched an appeal and raised £330,000 recently. BBC Dorset reported:- Standing at 180ft (55m) tall, the Cerne Giant is sculpted into the chalk hillside above the village of Cerne Abbas. It is thought to date from the Early Medieval Period (770–1100 AD) and has been speculatively claimed to be a fertility symbol or represent the demi-god Hercules. The trust has owned the small section of hillside on which the chalk giant rests since 1920. Link / more info:- BBC Dorset www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn82wv9pp7zo |
|
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Breaking news! Three days of Pride!
Bournemouth Pride - Bourne Free 2026 dates & info
(posted here 26/01/2026)
They said in an email to Weymouth Gay Group:-
Friday 10th July is our new over 18's evening from 17.00 - 22.00 replacing our family evening.
Saturday 11th will be our usual Pride event 12.00 - 22.30. Parade will be 11.00 - 12.00.
Sunday 12th July will be our new family event from 11.00 - 16.00.
This is a free event but we encourage people to book on line for tickets so we know how many to expect.
More info / details to follow over the coming months, which we will have here!
See also our Pride pages here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Bournemouth Pride - Bourne Free 2026 dates & info
(posted here 26/01/2026)
They said in an email to Weymouth Gay Group:-
Friday 10th July is our new over 18's evening from 17.00 - 22.00 replacing our family evening.
Saturday 11th will be our usual Pride event 12.00 - 22.30. Parade will be 11.00 - 12.00.
Sunday 12th July will be our new family event from 11.00 - 16.00.
This is a free event but we encourage people to book on line for tickets so we know how many to expect.
More info / details to follow over the coming months, which we will have here!
See also our Pride pages here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Diva on Portland! (posted here 23/01/2026)
Portland was recently visited by Ella Gauci, staff writer of Diva Magazine. The world’s leading magazine for LGBTQIA women and non-binary people. She spent a weekend at the BnB – side arts HQ at Fortuneswell on Portland, and embraced the local LGBT+ community while there.
Rocca, from B-side who helps to run the monthly LGBT+ meetup there, said …….
“It was wonderful to host Ella Gauci, from Diva Magazine at b-side’s Creative Retreat. We were able to showcase Portland’s vibrant and welcoming LGBT+side community - celebrating the diversity, creativity, and positivity this island has to offer, for all.”
More info bnb-side https://b-side.org.uk/stay/
Info and links:-
Diva Magazine:- https://diva-magazine.com/2026/01/21/this-creative-retreat-will-have-you-falling-in-love-with-the-isle-of-portland/
Ella Gauci is a Staff Writer at DIVA who focuses on all things music, film, and relationships. Throughout her time at DIVA she has investigated major issues within the LGBTQIA community such as abuse in care homes, homelessness in winter, and the experiences of queer refugees in the UK.
LGBT+ Side - Portland meetup.
When: last Wednesday each month. 6 - 8.pm At: b-side, 77 Fortuneswell, DT5 1LY
Rocca said:- “We aim to provide a safe, creative, brave, caring, and careful space for our beautiful, broad, and diverse community. A wide variety of very interesting topics each month, with some great food too!” Text Rocca on 07931183804 for more info.
Plus also see the monthly listings on our The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
Portland was recently visited by Ella Gauci, staff writer of Diva Magazine. The world’s leading magazine for LGBTQIA women and non-binary people. She spent a weekend at the BnB – side arts HQ at Fortuneswell on Portland, and embraced the local LGBT+ community while there.
Rocca, from B-side who helps to run the monthly LGBT+ meetup there, said …….
“It was wonderful to host Ella Gauci, from Diva Magazine at b-side’s Creative Retreat. We were able to showcase Portland’s vibrant and welcoming LGBT+side community - celebrating the diversity, creativity, and positivity this island has to offer, for all.”
More info bnb-side https://b-side.org.uk/stay/
Info and links:-
Diva Magazine:- https://diva-magazine.com/2026/01/21/this-creative-retreat-will-have-you-falling-in-love-with-the-isle-of-portland/
Ella Gauci is a Staff Writer at DIVA who focuses on all things music, film, and relationships. Throughout her time at DIVA she has investigated major issues within the LGBTQIA community such as abuse in care homes, homelessness in winter, and the experiences of queer refugees in the UK.
LGBT+ Side - Portland meetup.
When: last Wednesday each month. 6 - 8.pm At: b-side, 77 Fortuneswell, DT5 1LY
Rocca said:- “We aim to provide a safe, creative, brave, caring, and careful space for our beautiful, broad, and diverse community. A wide variety of very interesting topics each month, with some great food too!” Text Rocca on 07931183804 for more info.
Plus also see the monthly listings on our The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
|
|
|
Photos courtesy b-side Arts
**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
|
LGBTQ+ Community Heritage Celebration Part of LGBT+ History Month (posted here 24/01/2026) Dorset History Centre This wonderful event taking place in Dorchester is part of LGBT+ History Month, and a FREE event not to miss! Weymouth Gay Group are hoping to have an input, more info at our pub meetups. Event info:- Maria Gayton Community Engagement Officer Dorset History Centre 01305 250550 01305 221618 (direct) [email protected] Dorset Echo:- LGBTQ+ Community Heritage Celebration at History Centre. See - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/25813183.lgbtq-community-heritage-celebration-history-centre/ |
|
**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
|
RNAS Yeovilton - LGBT+ History Month Event (posted here 24/01/2026) Although a little outside our area, we feel this may interest some of you .... Weymouth Gay Group have recived an email from Rev'd James Bell-Winfrow Chaplain Commando Helicopter Force at RNAS Yeovilton. He said:- Please find attached a poster for a LGBT+ History Month Event happening at RNAS Yeovilton on Wednesday 4th February. It will begin with Nibbles* at 1900 with a chance to network and then into Talks at 1930. This years theme for LGBT+ History Month is ‘Science and Innovation’ and our event is focused at the LGBT+ Military community and allies and is open to Serving, Veterans, Civil Servants, MOD Contractors and Industry Partners. The event is hosted ‘outside of the wire’ in the Nuffield Centre, RNSA Yeovilton (W3W: ///smokers.sooner.poetry) this removes the need for passes and open its up to all. More info - email [email protected] RNAS Yeovilton BA22 8HT |
|
**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Dorset Sexual health Survey (posted here 12/01/2026)
They say ....
About this survey
We’d like to hear about your experiences with sexual health services in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) and Dorset areas. It also asks how you find information about sexual health and what you would like from these services in the future.
Who is running this survey?
This is a survey from the Public Health teams at BCP and Dorset Councils. The public health teams work together to plan and commission sexual health services.
More Info - https://consultation.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/public-health/sexualhealth/
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
They say ....
About this survey
We’d like to hear about your experiences with sexual health services in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) and Dorset areas. It also asks how you find information about sexual health and what you would like from these services in the future.
Who is running this survey?
This is a survey from the Public Health teams at BCP and Dorset Councils. The public health teams work together to plan and commission sexual health services.
More Info - https://consultation.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/public-health/sexualhealth/
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
|
Pride 2026 poster (posted here 01/01/2026, updated 24/01/2026)
Weymouth Gay Group like to produce a poster at this time of year listing all the Dorset Prides for the coming year. This is quite a challenge when many Prides have not yet got all their event info sorted early in the New Year. However, we have published a poster (on right, click to enlarge) as a guide with confirmed dates (where known) for the SEVEN Dorset Prides. This poster (version 4) will be updated when we have more details to add. We are awaiting date confirmation from Chesil Youth Pride (likely to be the same weekend as last year), and we are hearing about some exciting changes with Bournemouth Pride, see poster. Following on from the success in Dorchester last year, their Pop up Pride will be back with hopefully even more events running throughout Pride month. Great variety last year, of interest to all our community. It would be good to see Dorset Pubs supporting Pub Pride, end of May, as this has been lacking in recent years. Now is the time to get your local interested! Check out "Ask For Clive" and our Pride pages for more info .... https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html Use the pull down menu (on PC/laptop) to access our 17 pages of Dorset Prides, Past, Present & Future! |
Feel free to copy our poster and share with your friends and networks.
(Updated poster version 4, above added here 28/01/2026) |
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Weymouth Gay Group - 18 in 2026!
(posted here 01/01/2026)
With the arrival of 2026, Weymouth's longest running LGBT+ group turns 18!
Weymouth Gay Group started when a small group of guys got together as nothing socially was happening in town then. The very informal group has grown a lot over the years peaking with around 30 - 35 plus attending, embracing all LGBT+ people at a variety of town venues.
The group has weathered the storm of covid, and also lossed several former attendees who have moved away, or passed away. However the group continues to attract new people with a very loyal hard core of attendees at the twice weekly pub and restaurant meetups. The friendship and support towards each other has been outstanding and invaluable.
The groups website has outgrown its original brief and now also caters for Dorsets wider LGBT+ Community being described by Dorset NHS as "The LGBT+ Bible locally". Achieved through the very popular pages:- The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary, The Dorset LGBT+ Community News, and a well regarded Helplines & Support page. Plus, as far as we know, the only website pages listing all the Dorset Pride events! Past, present and future!
Coming of age at 18 was a memorable age for many of us around our pub tables, and a key step in the drive towards equality for our LGBT+ Community. How the Weymouth Gay Group wishes to celebrate its own milestone is uncertain, but it's clear there is a lot to celebrate!
Wish to join us at our meetups? You would be most welcome - Swan Mondays, Thursdays Meals Out at a variety of Weymouth restaurants.
Info see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/wgg-events.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
(posted here 01/01/2026)
With the arrival of 2026, Weymouth's longest running LGBT+ group turns 18!
Weymouth Gay Group started when a small group of guys got together as nothing socially was happening in town then. The very informal group has grown a lot over the years peaking with around 30 - 35 plus attending, embracing all LGBT+ people at a variety of town venues.
The group has weathered the storm of covid, and also lossed several former attendees who have moved away, or passed away. However the group continues to attract new people with a very loyal hard core of attendees at the twice weekly pub and restaurant meetups. The friendship and support towards each other has been outstanding and invaluable.
The groups website has outgrown its original brief and now also caters for Dorsets wider LGBT+ Community being described by Dorset NHS as "The LGBT+ Bible locally". Achieved through the very popular pages:- The Dorset LGBT+ Community Events Diary, The Dorset LGBT+ Community News, and a well regarded Helplines & Support page. Plus, as far as we know, the only website pages listing all the Dorset Pride events! Past, present and future!
Coming of age at 18 was a memorable age for many of us around our pub tables, and a key step in the drive towards equality for our LGBT+ Community. How the Weymouth Gay Group wishes to celebrate its own milestone is uncertain, but it's clear there is a lot to celebrate!
Wish to join us at our meetups? You would be most welcome - Swan Mondays, Thursdays Meals Out at a variety of Weymouth restaurants.
Info see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/wgg-events.html
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
|
Poole Pride present Suzi Ruffell at Lighthouse
- for Poole Pride 2026 (posted here 01/01/2026) Poole Pride say - A celebration of our beautiful LGBTQ+ community featuring multi-award-winning comedian Suzi Ruffell with her brand-new tour The Juggle. It’s hard to be good all the time. A good mother, a good daughter, a good partner, a good friend, a good person. To be ambitious but not ruthless; a success but not a sell-out. A gentle parent but not a pushover. To be smashing life and make it look easy. The juggle. Suzi is exhausted and she hasn’t even started. This is a stand-up show and a support group! More see - https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/event/suzi-ruffell-the-juggle/ Poole Pride is on Saturday June 6th 2026. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html |
|
Suzi has appeared on Live at the Apollo, The Jonathan Ross Show, The Last Leg and QI. Suzi co-hosts smash-hit podcasts Big Kick Energy with Maisie Adam and Like Minded Friends with Tom Allen, as well as having her own podcast, OUT with Suzi Ruffell. She even finds time to host on Virgin Radio. Suzi’s debut book, Am I Having Fun Now? released in June 2025.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Your key LGBT+ not to miss Dorset Events in 2026! (posted here 01/01/2026)
|
LGBT+ History Month - February 2026 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 2026 UK LGBT+ History Month theme is: Science and innovation
History Month website- lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2026/
It is celebrated every February across the UK, and was founded in 2004
The 2026 UK LGBT+ History Month theme is: Science and innovation
History Month website- lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2026/
IDAHOBIT Day May 17th 2026 Events world wide
Perhaps in Dorset too. Why not run one!
May 17th Info - https://may17.org/
Perhaps in Dorset too. Why not run one!
May 17th Info - https://may17.org/
Pub Pride - Friday May 29th 2026 (date confirmed)
Nationally and locally it runs again over the weekend of Friday 29th May 2026
The Wyke Smugglers, Weymouth - was listed on the Pub Pride website for 2025, but we are unsure if they ran any special events. We did contact them but did not get a reply.
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 2026, as past years have not been good locally. An exception being a few years ago at Weymouth's Waterloo Pub (under previous management) in 2022.
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
Nationally and locally it runs again over the weekend of Friday 29th May 2026
The Wyke Smugglers, Weymouth - was listed on the Pub Pride website for 2025, but we are unsure if they ran any special events. We did contact them but did not get a reply.
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 2026, as past years have not been good locally. An exception being a few years ago at Weymouth's Waterloo Pub (under previous management) in 2022.
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
Back in 2026! - and was new in 2025
Pop Up Pride Dorchester
Dorchester celebrates Pride month with a month long assortment of events.
Pride Poems, Pub BBQ, Meals Out on Monday - at Wagamama!
- and around a dozen more pop up events! We loved last years Pride Picnic in Borourgh Gardens.
See our page here for lots more info:- weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pop-up-pride.html
Pop Up Pride Dorchester
Dorchester celebrates Pride month with a month long assortment of events.
Pride Poems, Pub BBQ, Meals Out on Monday - at Wagamama!
- and around a dozen more pop up events! We loved last years Pride Picnic in Borourgh Gardens.
See our page here for lots more info:- weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pop-up-pride.html
Poole Pride 6th June 2026 (date confirmed)
This newish Dorset Pride ran for the first time in 2024.
Venue:- The Lighthouse Poole.
See our Pride page here for 2025 pics and reports.
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
We were there with our Weymouth Gay Group info stall!
This newish Dorset Pride ran for the first time in 2024.
Venue:- The Lighthouse Poole.
See our Pride page here for 2025 pics and reports.
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/poole-pride.html
We were there with our Weymouth Gay Group info stall!
Chesil Youth Pride Saturday 27 June 2026 (date confirmed)
Back for its forth year in 2026! Pride. Stalls at Weymouth College from 12pm.
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
Sherborne Pride - Sunday 28th June 2026 (date confirmed)
This first ran last year (2024), and was AMAZING! Well worth attending as it returns again.
Parade through town & stalls in Pageant Gardens, Sherborne & lots more!
Weymouth Gay Group had a stall here, and loved it!
See our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html
This first ran last year (2024), and was AMAZING! Well worth attending as it returns again.
Parade through town & stalls in Pageant Gardens, Sherborne & lots more!
Weymouth Gay Group had a stall here, and loved it!
See our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/sherborne-pride.html
Bournemouth Pride Fri 11 Sat 11th Sun 12th July 2026 Bourne Free (dates confirmed)
DORSETS BIGGEST ANNUAL LGBT+ EVENT!
Parade through town, stalls etc in Meyrick Park Bournemouth.
Friday 10th Family evening bournefree.co.uk/
DORSETS BIGGEST ANNUAL LGBT+ EVENT!
Parade through town, stalls etc in Meyrick Park Bournemouth.
Friday 10th Family evening bournefree.co.uk/
HUGE parade through Bournemouth with many Dorset LGBT+ community groups and allies 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 loads of 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 loads of pics!
here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
Bournemouth Community Pride Saturday 11th July 2026 (date tbc)
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
|
Dorset Pride events in 2026
If you like Prides you will like us! We are the only Dorset website that lists ALL the Dorset Pride events. Dorset Prides. Past, Present and Future! 17 pages covering each of the Dorset towns with a Pride event. Reports and loads of pics, & links to the SEVEN in 2025, and the FIVE or was it NINE ? Pride events during 2024! We have info / reviews about all The Dorset Prides, the ones you went to, the ones you missed, even the ones you wish would happen! See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html |
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
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 06/03/2026 © 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
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
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 06/03/2026 © 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
****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
