Kash Retails Kevin Polley presents a cheque outside Nisa Local

Kash Retail, operator of Nisa Local Fenby Avenue in Darlington, has donated £1,000 through Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally (MADL) Pride Pot to support this year’s Darlington Pride Festival.

The donation, inspired by store team member Gavin Morrison, who performs as drag queen Georgina Sparks, will provide a valuable boost, helping organisers deliver an inclusive and vibrant celebration for the local community.

Darlington Pride Festival, taking place from Saturday 9 to Monday 11 August, is a key event in the town’s cultural calendar. The festival showcases performances, parades and community activities, promoting diversity and inclusivity. It is supported by numerous local businesses and organisations, including primary sponsor Cummins Inc. and the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner.

Cllr James Coe, Darlington Borough Council’s LGBT+ Champion, welcomed the donation: “We’re very grateful to Nisa Local for offering £1,000 to support plans for this year’s event. The funds will be added to the council’s budget for the event and help make Pride 2025 extra special. The events team deliver a varied programme of free public events and welcome the opportunity to work with sponsors to make fun, exciting things happen in the town centre.”

Kevin Polley, operations manager for Nisa Local (above left), added: “Every time a customer buys one of our own brand products, a penny is added to our fund. This donation is out of the MADL Pride Pot and we’re delighted to be supporting such a popular and inclusive event, right on our doorstep,.