'Mayor effect' for gay pride fest

Peter Davies' outspoken views are popular with many voters

Publicity from the mayor of Doncaster's controversial decision to stop funding the city's gay pride event has led to record interest, organisers have said.

Peter Davies announced the move when he took office in June, but later said he would honour financial commitments to this year's pride event.

Organisers said: "We've had a lot more publicity because of the new mayor, it's brought us a lot more interest."

The event on 16 August will feature live music and a parade.

Vice Chair of the Doncaster Pride Committee Jen Dewsnap said: "With the recent publicity we now know of people who will be coming from all over the country.

"It's important that we put on a good show, not just to show that Doncaster Pride is a good event but also because this may be the first time some people have visited Doncaster, it is important for us to be able to represent our town with a good event."

Mr Davis, an English Democrat, has been dubbed The Marmite Mayor by press because of his strong, often controversial views.