Day two

Orb360 is the big Giant plastic balls that two people get strapped in and go down the hill… My view was never would I do something like that. With thanks to Lady James and Sally Vate going head to head with Candi Rell and Vanilla Lush. I thought wigs and make up would go everywhere but they spun down the hill, and Candi and Vanilla won by an eyelash!! Connie Conway also joined up with a Stag on a day out there and helping assist was Stephanie Starlett who recently had a hernia op so couldn’t do it. Following auctioning places off I was bid £30 to go down in an orb, which I did but was pleased also Judith Manson, Pride’s Fundraising and Communications Manager, head down in the other orb, we came from behind to win at the post but I couldn’t believe the balls were like putting yourself in an instant sauna. It is a fantastic day out and every penny spent yesterday on each trip came to pride so thank you Orb360 and here’s to next year!

Having caught the sun and slightly recovered from my ordeal, my legs took hours to get over the trip. I got my keyboard and music in hand and went to the Dorset Gardens Methodist Church for the GEMS (Gay Elderly Men’s Society) Keyboard Cuisine. This was a fun dinner prepared by Peter Otto, with the guest of The Mayor and Mayoress. In the corner whilst each course was prepared, I was playing musical pieces associated with food. From “Ask Any of the Chickens in my pen” from “When You’re Good To Mama” from Chicago to “I’ll be Seeing You In Apple Blossom Time”, the guests had to fill in my musical quiz. The winner was Ian Scott and the evening was a great success. GEMS to me is such an important group. The scene in Brighton and Hove isn’t just about the pubs and clubs, but a diverse world of all ages, arts, culture, sports. There is nothing out there that isn’t part of the scene. If the capacity of the “gay scene” is 6,500 and there are 38000 registered LGBT people living in this city then there are over 30,000 who don’t regularly go out… not to the “gay scene” so there is world out there for people. And GEMS is one of the jewels out there to be discovered.

Following the meal, I scooted over to the Aquarium Theatre Bar in Steine Street, to watch David Raven, aka Maisie Trollette. He was astounding in all ways as he is an amazing man. In his *cough* year, I cant say the age.. he was as himself rather than his alter ego sitting on the bar rather than on the stage so more people could see him but all the jokes, send ups and songs that we all love.

Now if that is just the first day of the Pride Festival, im exhausted already…. Had 10 hours in bed to get my going for today Today I am popping to London with David Raven to do a little lunchtime gig then back to the Pride Garden Party at Montpeillier Hall. In the afternoon we have antique valuation thing ith Mark Stacey and Simon Schnieder from TV’s Cash in The Attic and Dickinson’s REldeal respectively. Just for £5 per valuation you can take anything you like down and get it valued… not people though hehe. Then this evening is a Black Tie Ball in the gardens with a string quartet and a lovely meal. All at £30 per ticket from 01273 770300 it should be a fascinating night. Will tell you tomorrow.

Also today is the Walk and Picnic with BLAGSS (Brighton Lesbian and Gay Sports Society), one of their many events this week which is a 7 mile walk from Eastern Road, across the Dwons to Rottingdean for picnic and return via the Under Cliff path and Volks Railway. It’s a free event and contact 0845 65 BLAGS for more information Right I better go and get ready for London!!