Not just about the parade or the party in the park, Brighton Pride is also about fundraising and community events throughout the week. Here's our round up of what else has been happening.

On Saturday 29th July, we dropped into St George's Church in Kemp Town for a special Pride evening held by the Gay Elderly Men's Society (GEMS). The main part of the evenings was a screening of Torch Song Trilogy and during the interval we were able to enjoy the food, wine and good company of the GEMS' Members. Peter Otto and friends did a great job of hosting the evening which featured a raffle as well as an art exhibition with original works by John Henson, a GEMS Members. Also on hand to support the proceedings was the ever-popular Dorothy of Age Concern. Yes..you've guessed it - they're all friends of Dorothy! The forum usually meets on the last Friday of each month in the Community Centre of St George's Church and in the Summer there are also outings to make the most of the fantastic weather we've been having, as proved by the film shown of their recent boat trip along the River Arun. GEMS provides the ideal space for more mature men who want a place to meet to enjoy good conversation, without the noise and smoke whcih is so often part of the mainstream gay scene. We'll be bringing you more information on the group after Pride.

On Monday 31st July, perhops the whackiest Pride Fundraiser spun into action with a 24 hour spin cycle marathon. Not a washing machine programme setting, but the lovely Jeremy from Nua (that sexy little Ship Street shop) on a spin exercise bike peddling his way through a sponsored day and night. Jeremy was hoping to raise £1000 for Pride and passers by were being very supportive. We've heard that Jeremy successfully completed his ride and was last scene nursing sore legs and downing a jug of something rather alcoholic...

Later on Monday, Pintxo People, a new and rather gorgeous Spanish restaurant opposite Waitrose, held a tapas evening with a distinct Flamenco flavour. Diners were treated to a full tapas banquet with entertainment in a very civilised setting. This event was raising funds for Brighton Pride and between forty and fifty people were in attendance in a very celebratory mood. We apologise for not having photos available of Tom, Pride Trustee, clicking his fingers and kicking up his heels in true Flamenco fashion, but we have had reports from eye witnesses.

Meanwhile, over at the Friends Meeting House on Tuesday, Brighton Ourstory presented Really Living. Particularly poignant on Pride week, this show brought photographs, film and spoken word together to voice the experiences of lesbians and gay men through three generations. Effectively telling the story of gay and lesbian Brighton from the Second World War, through to the end of the last millennium, this was an emotional and genuinely heart-warming experience. This was the tale of the real heroes living before us that made a huge impact on living as an LGBT individual in Brighton today. For more information on Brighton Ourstory and their fascinating archives, collected over the last two decades, but spanning many more, visit www.brightonourstory.co.uk. Watch out for their next presentation - we really do thoroughly recommend it!

These events are an intrinsic part of the Pride festival and are testament to the hard work of community organisations and businesses coming together to support the LGBT community and the message of Pride. Despite the enormous advances we have made in the areas of equality and acceptance, there are still things that need to be done.

While you're partying the weekend away, don't forget this. As a community working together, we stand strong.

Be nice, be safe and have a fantastic Pride!