Scene Magazine reporter Liran Notik was at Hove Park for the annual Rainbow Run, capturing the colour, energy and LGBTQ+ spirit of Brighton & Hove as hundreds of runners, families, friends and allies came together ahead of Pride.
With more than 500 runners, the event was filled with celebration, community and plenty of Pride energy. We spoke to Mayor of Brighton & Hove Cllr Theresa Fowler, Brighton & Hove Frontrunners' Scott Oakley and drag queen, host and performer Cherry Bomb.
Watch our interview with Mayor of Brighton & Hove
Liran Notik, in an exclusive interview with Cllr Theresa Fowler, Mayor of Brighton & Hove
Cllr Theresa Fowler described the atmosphere as “buzzing” and “electrifying”, saying she hoped everyone would have fun, do their best and enjoy supporting an important cause.
This year's Rainbow Run was raising money for MindOut, supporting LGBTQ+ people with their mental health and other challenges.
Watch our interview with Scott Oakley: Five Years of Rainbow Run
Scott Oakley: Five Years of Rainbow Run | Interview with Liran Notik
Scott Oakley explained that the Rainbow Run takes place every year on the night before Brighton Pride, combining fun, Pride and fundraising for charity partners.
Now in its fifth year, the event welcomed more than 500 runners and around 400 spectators. Scott highlighted the mix of LGBTQ+ participants, families, friends and allies, describing the atmosphere as “electrifying” and encouraging everyone to come back next year.
Watch our interview with Cherry Bomb: Queer Joy and Community
Cherry Bomb: Queer Joy and Community | Interview with Liran Notik
Hosting the Rainbow Run for the first time, Cherry Bomb brought her trademark humour and energy to Hove Park. She described the atmosphere as full of “queer energy” and love, praising the event's diversity and the presence of LGBTQ+ people, families and allies.
Cherry also revealed this year's special medal - a Brighton-inspired cone of fish and chips with a seagull - and hoped runners would take home wonderful memories, as well as their medals.
The Rainbow Run once again showed the strength and diversity of Brighton & Hove's LGBTQ+ community, bringing people together through Pride, fundraising, fitness and, most importantly, joy.
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