Easter bonnet parade and drag races raise £3,229.68 for HIV charity.
The Bedford Tavern and Grosvenor Bar in Hove, played host to the annual Easter Bonnet Parade and charity drag races on Easter Sunday (April 23), raising a staggering £3,229.68 for local HIV charity, The Sussex Beacon.
The days activities included an Easter Bonnet competition hosted by Dave Lynn, a sing-a-long, piano bingo and cabaret entertainment at both venues.
Western Street was packed with competitors and spectators as the races took place and bets were placed on the ‘athletes’. A raffle and bucket collection throughout the day ensured as much money as possible was raised for charity.
Victor Von Cock and Princess Stephanie L’Amour won the drag races.
Simon Dowe, Chief Executive of The Sussex Beacon, said: “This is one of the craziest events in Brighton’s calendar and we were so grateful to be chosen as the beneficiary again. The competitors had gone to town with their outfits this year! We want to thank the runners, the spectators and particularly The Bedford Tavern and Grosvenor Bar for organising the event. £3,229.68 is a great result and the money will go directly to helping people living with HIV in Sussex.”
Adam Brooks landlord of the Bedford Tavern, added: “This was the best ever Easter Sunday event we have had. I am overwhelmed by the support our little event received and my heartfelt thanks goes to everyone who helped make the day a roaring success.
“There are too many people to thank individually but I must pay special thanks to all of our Drag Runners, the amazing volunteers and everyone who placed bets, bought raffle tickets, piano bingo tickets and put money in the buckets,
“Special thanks to our amazing cabaret acts Spice, Miss Treated, Kara van Park and Halle Ween who gave their time for free and put on a spectacular show for everyone.
“Finally, Team Bedford! My amazing, hardworking, beautiful staff, my Bedford family – you worked your arses off for a record-breaking day, I love you to bits, thank you.”
The Sussex Beacon provides specialist support and care for people living with HIV. The charity provides both inpatient and outpatient services to promote independence and improve health.
For more information about the Sussex Beacon, click here:
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