A popular cafe has held Witham's first ever LGBTQ+ event after throwing a Covid secure Pride Party.

Valero Lounge hosted the party over the weekend to launch the towns Pride celebrations.

June marks Pride month which is usually celebrated with big parades and marches, but with social distancing restrictions still in place because of the pandemic, things are a little different this year.

The lounge are raising money throughout June for Outhouse, a local LGBTQ+ charity.

Witham's LGBTQ+ Ambassador Councillor Chelsey Jay said holding events like this is a "key priority".

Braintree and Witham Times: Councillor Chelsey Jay and Bobbie Twaddle Councillor Chelsey Jay and Bobbie Twaddle

Miss Jay added: "I am absolutely delighted to see our wonderful town celebrating Pride.

"Holding events like this not only represents an inclusive and supportive community, but a key priority of the Witham LGBTQ+ Network was to help our local businesses following such a devastating time for them, so we were thrilled when Valero Lounge were so enthusiastic and agreed to host and mark this special month with a colour party for all to enjoy.

"It has been one year since I become Witham LGBTQ+ Ambassador and created the private Facebook group the Witham LGBTQ+ Network and today we stand at nearly 100 members, all made up of Witham residents that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer/questioning and other sexual identities.

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"This is a special venture, that sees our town embracing a safe space, designed specifically for people who are more likely to experience hate crime in our county.

"I have no doubt that Witham will continuing embracing love and individuality and that next year more local pubs and restaurants will get on board with Pride events, hopefully without any restrictions in place that stop us from dancing."

To join search Witham LGBTQ+ Network on Facebook.