A FORMER contestant on The X Factor was among the acts to feature at the first Pride event to be held in Towyn last weekend.

The Morton Arms pub hosted Sami Brookes, who hails from Rhyl and who made the live shows stage of the competition in 2011, and more at Towyn Pride on Saturday (June 1).

Running from 12.30pm until 1am the following morning, the event was hosted by drag artist Sheela Vim, and also involved stilt walkers, fire eaters and a number of other musical acts.

There was also a cash bingo event as part of the festivities, while entry was free of charge.

North Wales Pioneer: A stilt walker at Towyn PrideA stilt walker at Towyn Pride (Image: Gary Pugh)

Darren Howells, entertainment manager at the pub, hailed an “absolutely fantastic day with an amazing turnout”.

The pub is already planning a similar event at its premises next year, while Knightly’s Bar and Restaurant in Towyn will also be holding its own pride weekend later this month (June 28-30).

Pride Month, which is celebrated annually in June, as that was the month when the 1969 Stonewall riots took place.

North Wales Pioneer: Towyn Pride 2024Towyn Pride 2024 (Image: Gary Pugh)

Darren added: “To all of our amazing customers that showed up to celebrate with us, we are all so grateful to you and what an amazing day is was.

“Thank you to all of our hard-working staff, who worked so hard yesterday as always - we are super grateful to have you all.

“Here’s to Pride 2025.”