Michael Causer was brutally killed in a homophobic attack
16:08, 10 Jul 2025Updated 16:08, 10 Jul 2025
Michael Causer was a trainee hairdresser(Image: One Knowsley)
Knowsley Pride is set to return to the borough with the full line-up of events having been announced. The 2025 edition returns following the success of last year’s inaugural event, which welcomed more than 3,000 attendees.
Organisers have said the festivities are continuing to grow as a vibrant, inclusive celebration of equality and LGBTQ+ identity in the borough. This year is said to be “bigger, brighter and filled with even more opportunities for local people to get involved”.
The Saturday, July 19 celebrations will see activity taking place across the borough in the week leading up to the main events. The 2025 programme continues to honour the legacy of Michael Causer, a gay teenager and aspiring hairdresser from Whiston who was tragically murdered in an attack in 2008.
Seventeen years on, the Pride events aim to promote acceptance, solidarity, and community resilience in his memory. Racheal Jones, CEO of One Knowsley, said: “We’re incredibly proud to announce the expanded programme for Knowsley Pride 2025, which includes borough-wide events, two main celebrations, and the continued support of the Michael Causer Fund.
One Knowsley Pride event at Court Hey Park Huyton.(Image: Gavin Trafford)
“Thanks to this funding, local organisations can deliver meaningful, community-led Pride projects across the week — helping people feel seen, valued, and connected. Michael’s legacy lives on through these initiatives, and through the growing support for Pride in Knowsley.”
Two Main Events: Court Hey Park and Prescot
The day itself will begin with Knowsley Pride: Court Hey Park, an outdoor event from 12pm to 2pm featuring live entertainment, community stalls, performances and activities designed to celebrate identity and visibility.
The event will be hosted by Paul Doyle, alongside House of Suarez, who will bring “energy, creativity, and inclusive entertainment to the day”. The programme will include dance performances and accessible dance workshops for all the family.
One Knowsley Pride event at Court Hey Park Huyton.(Image: Gavin Trafford)
Artistic director at House of Suarez Darren Suarez said: “We’re proud to be part of Knowsley Pride, a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that brings the community together in the spirit of inclusion and joy. We’ll be running accessible dance workshops for all the family throughout the day, inviting everyone to express themselves, and be part of the fun.”
From 2pm onwards, celebrations will continue with Pride in Prescot — a cultural and creative programme delivered in partnership with Shakespeare North Playhouse and Sahir.
Activities will include workshops, artistic performances, and a powerful soapbox moment in the Ken Dodd Performance Garden, culminating in an evening of LGBTQIA+ storytelling and theatre. The workshops at Shakespeare North Playhouse are for people aged 18 plus.
Sister Sister rose to fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race and since has cemented themselves as a pillar of the region’s community(Image: Instagram / @officialsistersister)
Shakespeare North Playhouse’s CEO Lisa Allen said: “Pride is such an important moment for our community to come together — to celebrate, reflect and show up for one another.
“We’re excited to host an incredible line-up of performances and activities that shine a spotlight on LGBTQIA+ voices, including the fabulous Sister Sister from BBC’s Drag Race UK.
“At Shakespeare North, we’re proud to be a space where everyone’s voice matters — and we can’t wait to welcome people of all ages to Prescot this July.”
Ant Hopkins, CEO of Sahir added: “At Sahir, Pride is more than a celebration — it’s a declaration. It’s about visibility, voice, and unapologetic authenticity,
“This day is about honouring our history whilst igniting a future built on equity and joy. We believe in the power of art to spark dialogue, challenge norms, and remind us that queer lives are vibrant, valid, and vital.”