Respect is the key as council leader salutes inclusive event (From Warrington Guardian)

Respect is the key as council leader salutes inclusive event

A MONTHLY party will take place in Winsford for people from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.

Voices in Vale Royal, the group that organised a pilot Pink Party in the town in March, decided to start up the four-weekly event following the success of the first night.

The Pink Party will take place on the first Tuesday of every month at the Debees Music Bar in Market Place.

And Clr Keith Musgrave, the leader of Vale Royal Borough Council, is pleased that inclusive events such as the Pink Party have taken off in the borough.

He said: "I know some people might have fixed views about these events, but provided people don't break the law and cause trouble for other members of the public then I don't see the problem.

"The group links in with the way the borough council is trying to create a more inclusive Vale Royal.

"We don't have prejudice against any race, religion or sexual orientation.

"In fact, inclusiveness is something the council is judged on when we have our comprehensive performance assessment."

A spokesman for Voices in Vale Royal said: "More than 100 people turned up for the party in March. There was a great atmosphere and it has clearly shown the need for such an event in Vale Royal.

"We are committed to working with all local organisations and businesses to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues are treated fairly and with respect."

Voices in Vale Royal has been busy since its inception last year, providing feedback to Weaver Vale Housing Trust on its diversity policy and contributing to the Government's consultation on same sex marriages.

rfraser@guardiangrp.co.uk