Bournemouth Pride: 89-year-old dons snazziest blazer

Patrick Haddingham, 89, has been a spectator at the Bourne Free parade in the past but wished to be more involved in the celebrations this year.

Team members at Colton Care Avon Cliff in Bournemouth, arranged for Patrick and three other residents to take part in the parade.

The whole group dressed in rainbow accessories and face paint, as well as Patrick being the star of the show in a shining gold blazer and blue mirror sunglasses.

Patrick said: “What an amazing experience I had. I never thought I would be able to be on the parade at my age and I never thought I would see so many people in one place ever again.

“Seeing people smile and wave made my day.

“It was better than I could have imagined.”

READ MORE: Su Pollard leads 2023's Bourne Free pride parade

Patrick’s fellow residents also spoke of their delight in taking part.

Edie Crowley said: “I enjoyed every minute. I really felt so alive, and I can’t wait to do it again.”

Dawn Street said: “I don’t think I could feel any happier than I did on the day. It was emotional to be a part of. It was a day I will remember.”

Dottie Dixon: said: “For me, it was the best thing that has happened in a long time and to be in a group of people that all got into the spirit was amazing.”

Companionship Team member, Elise Woolnough, commented on the support from the crowd during the parade.

“We had comments from the crowd about how fantastic it was to see Colten Care being part of the parade, representing the LGBT community and reminding us that older people are part of the community.

“Patrick, in his snazziest blazer, drew plenty of compliments from people as we went past.

“He has been a resident with us at Avon Cliff for many years and has attended Bourne Free as a spectator a few times.

“He told us he loved it so much he would not only want to go again, but actually have the chance to be a part of it.”