Totnes Castle Pride flag display draws national attention

A 150-metre Pride flag was unfurled around Totnes Castle on September 26, marking the return of Totnes Pride after a three-year hiatus. The display, described by organizers as a piece of public art, was supported by English Heritage and featured a flag loaned by Torbay Pride.

The event drew approximately 400 attendees. While local feedback has been reported as almost entirely positive, the display drew criticism from Rupert Lowe MP, leader of the Restore Britain party, who described the event on social media as “wildly naff” and “generally vomit-inducing.”

Totnes Pride facilitator Pulama Kaufman stated the installation was intended to create a visible moment to signal that “queer people have always been here and always will be.” Organizers noted that the town's reputation as an arts and culture center influenced the decision to use such an audacious public art piece.