Pride Awards 2024

Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde Pride Awards 2024: A Night to Remember

The Grosvenor Casino in Blackpool was the place to be on Thursday, November 28th, as the Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde Pride Awards 2024 lit up the evening with an unforgettable celebration of love, diversity, and community spirit. Hundreds of attendees gathered for a night filled with joy, camaraderie, and recognition of extraordinary achievements in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

The atmosphere was electric as friends, families, and allies came together to honour the inspiring individuals and organisations making a difference in the region. From glamorous performances to heartfelt acceptance speeches, the night was a testament to the power of unity and inclusion.

Celebrating Outstanding Achievements

This year’s event featured 20 well-deserved awards, recognising talent, dedication, and excellence across a wide range of categories. Here’s a closer look at the 2024 winners:

Service Award: Lancashire Fire Service
Local Business Award: Blackpool Transport
Newcomer Award: McGraths
Queen of Blackpool: DJ Zoe
Cabaret Artist / Entertainer of the Year (Sponsored by Sherlocks): Chloe Byrnes
Drag Cabaret Artist of the Year: Miss Amber (The Flying Handbag)
Youth Pride Award (Sponsored by UYA): South Shore Academy
Venue Manager of the Year: Connor McGrath (McGraths)
Host of the Year: Miss Amber (The Flying Handbag)
DJ of the Year: Nathan Rutland (The Flying Handbag)

Venue Safety Award: The Flying Handbag
Rainbow Accommodation Award: McGraths
Bar Person of the Year: Jamie Clark
Door Person of the Year: Dawn Cuthbertson (The Flying Handbag)
Nighttime Venue of the Year: The Flying Handbag
Daytime Venue of the Year: The Flying Handbag
Fundraiser of the Year (Sponsored by A&P Sheron House): Garlands
Volunteer of the Year: Philip Charles
John Palmer Award: Vicki Steeden
Lifetime Achievement Award: Cybil DuVaux

The Flying Handbag: A Star of the Night

The Flying Handbag, a beloved staple in the local LGBTQ+ scene, shone brightly throughout the evening, sweeping multiple awards including Drag Cabaret Artist of the Year, Host of the Year, DJ of the Year, Venue Safety Award, and both the Daytime and Nighttime Venue of the Year honours. Their continued dedication to creating a safe, welcoming, and vibrant space for everyone is truly commendable.

Emotional Moments and Community Spirit

A highlight of the night was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Cybil DuVaux, whose legacy of advocacy and visibility has left an indelible mark on the community. Meanwhile, the prestigious John Palmer Award, recognising exceptional contributions, was awarded to Vicki Steeden. Both honourees received standing ovations, reflecting the immense respect and gratitude they inspire.

Special Recognition by the Chair

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Chair’s Special Recognition Awards, celebrating businesses and venues that have made an outstanding impact in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. This year, the honours went to Garlands, Peek a Booze, Sherlocks, Rendezvous, The Grosvenor Casino, The Flying Handbag, The Station, and Oak Lea Hotel. Each recipient has shown exceptional commitment to creating safe, welcoming, and vibrant spaces, fostering a sense of belonging for all. Their contributions underscore the importance of community-driven efforts in building a more inclusive society.

A Night to Inspire

The Pride Awards 2024 was more than just an awards ceremony; it was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the unbreakable bonds within the LGBTQ+ community. As the evening drew to a close, attendees left the Grosvenor Casino inspired and united, looking forward to another year of progress and pride.

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees, and thank you to everyone who made this incredible night possible. Together, we continue to build a more inclusive and loving world.

Let us know your favourite moments from the evening or share your stories from the Pride Awards 2024! 🌈