A FREE virtual event to celebrate diversity and young people from the LGBT+ community is being held this evening (Friday) by a team of Tranent residents, including students from Ross High School.

The event, featuring a quiz and discussion, is being held in celebration of Purple Friday, an annual LGBT+ awareness day which traditionally takes place on the last Friday in February at the end of LGBT History Month.

Delivering and hosting the event are Ross High students, teamed up with MYPAS – a charity that supports young people’s health and wellbeing – and St Martin’s Primary School.

Damien Gray, 15, who helps run Ross High’s LGBT+ and Allies club, said: “Our event is being held to express love and solidarity for all LGBT+ people.

“The theme this year is ‘Pass the Torch’ – the idea is to spread the love by passing the torch, so to speak, to others in your community, specifically young people, and give them a chance to speak up and feel pride.

“Our goal is to create a fun, safe space for young people who might be feeling alone during lockdown.”

The event, comprising a quiz about LGBT+ media and history, a discussion and other activities, will be held on Zoom from 6pm to 8pm.

All those aged 12 and over are welcome to attend, and should register via eventbrite.co.uk/e/purple-friday-pass-the-torch-tickets-138320669847