Reform UK leader of St Helens Borough Council pulls support for St Helens Pride, claiming event affiliated to "harmful trans ideology"

The leader of St Helens Borough Council has come under fire after announcing the authority will no longer support Pride events, prompting accusations of division and criticism from fellow councillors.

George Woodward, who took control of the council for Reform UK following May's local elections, said on Tuesday, 9 June that council officers had been instructed to end their involvement with Pride celebrations in the borough.

The decision was announced in a social media post in which Woodward argued that Pride was not an appropriate use of council resources and claimed the event had become linked to what he described as "harmful transgender ideology".

His comments quickly drew criticism from residents and political opponents, with many accusing the council leader of misrepresenting both Pride and trans people.

Woodward said the council would no longer "support or promote" the annual event and that officers had been told to cease engagement with its organisation. He argued that local authorities should not devote resources to what he characterised as a politically aligned celebration.

However, critics said Pride serves a broader purpose, providing visibility, support and a sense of community for LGBTQ+ residents and their families.

Among those challenging the move was St Helens councillor James Dunn, who said Pride was fundamentally about inclusion rather than politics.

"For many of our LGBT residents, families, young people and allies, Pride is about visibility, safety, history, acceptance and community," Dunn said.

He also warned against rhetoric that presents LGBTQ+ inclusion or trans people as a threat, adding that Woodward's views did not reflect those of all elected members.

"Trans residents are part of St Helens. Young people working out who they are are part of St Helens and they should know they have allies too," he said.

The council leader said private organisations, charities and community groups would remain free to continue supporting Pride independently of the local authority.

Several residents responded directly to Woodward's announcement online, with one describing the decision as "pathetic" and another branding the comments "embarrassing".

Despite the withdrawal of official council backing, organisers and supporters of Pride are expected to continue events in the borough with support from community groups and local partners.