Chippenham Pride has officially been shortlisted for Grassroots Pride of the Year in a national awards ceremony.

This comes after the Wiltshire town hosted its first-ever pride event this year, with thousands of people from around the county showing up in support.

Gadio Pride Awards, hosted by the UK’s only LGBTQ+ radio station, are dedicated to recognising and celebrating the efforts made to better LGBTQ+ lives in the UK, with a focus on regional efforts and celebrating unsung heroes.

In their first year, Chippenham Pride organisers have already caught the attention of the judges, as the organisation received multiple nominations and was shortlisted for a grassroots award.

The chance to nominate individuals, charities and organisations was opened to the public in October, giving people the chance to shine a light on those making a positive difference in the UK.

In the Grassroots Pride of the Year category, Chippenham Pride has been nominated alongside Arran Pride and Trans Pride Hastings.

"We are thrilled to unveil the official shortlist for the Gaydio Pride Awards 2024 with Hilton,” said Kriss Herbert, network content director at Gaydio.

“Our 2024 shortlist spotlights outstanding individuals, charities, events and organisations that make a difference, inspire change, and continuously make a positive impact on the lives of the LGBTQ+ community all year round, across the UK.

“We can’t wait to celebrate our shortlisters and reveal our winners at the 2024 ceremony – a huge congratulations to our chosen shortlist.”

Chippenham's first Pride was held at Monkton Park on Saturday, June 17, 2023, and was attended by almost 4,000 people.

It saw a wide array of events on different stages, including comedy, cabaret, speakers and late-night entertainment.

“I’m so proud of what the team have achieved. I’m so grateful to have every single one of the committee members fighting for this event," said event co-founder Penny Richman, who plans to make Chippenham Pride an annual event.

Councillor Declan Baseley, the town’s youngest-ever mayor, described the day as a huge success, which has now been proven by the Gaydio shortlisted.

“I’m so proud of my hometown for celebrating its first-ever Pride event," he said.

“Chippenham really is a tolerant and welcoming community where expression of the self is encouraged, and where we aren’t judged for being who we are.

The official winners are set to be announced at the glitzy award ceremony at Manchester’s Hilton Hotel on Friday, February 16, 2024.