I WISH to thank the Citizen for giving the Lancaster Pride LGBT Festival the full attention it deserves.

I was especially pleased with the positive coverage it gave to efforts to organise the event and pass on the invitation to all to join in.

This is to be valued, particularly when in the past the same paper has used sensationalist headlines to perpetrate negative stereotypes when it suited them (we have not forgotten the tar brushing of all gay people when reporting on consenting adults having sex in public spaces earlier this year).

The Citizen's coverage of Pride thus far has focused on the party' side of things but as we get closer to the event we look forward to more of the serious aspects of pride coming out.

This means: creating a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people and their families to live their lives free from fear of persecution, be it name calling, bullying, job discrimination or assault. This is what all the volunteers organising pride are devoted to.

More details will become available as we secure more funding. Get in touch with us at Lancaster_pride@yahoo.co.uk to help.

One final point: the photo published in the Citizen underscores the importance of breaking down stereotypes. Readers may be surprised to know that what they saw in that photo were immigrants, queers, bisexuals, lesbians, gay men, transgendered people, parents and young people. The group of volunteers contributing to Pride is yet more diverse. Sadly some people chose not to be shown because of fear of repercussions.

If you didn't see yourself in that photo but would like to be a part of Lancaster Pride, log on at www.lancasterpride.co.uk.

Sabrina Mazzoni, Lancaster Pride.