Antony Cotton is an actor and singer born in Manchester and best known for his roles in Coronation Street and the original UK version of Queer as Folk, alongside fellow patron Adam Zane. He has also appeared in episodes of Absolutely Fabulous as the character Damon and in 2007, Cotton won the second series of ITV's Soapstar Superstar.

Unlike his character Alexander in Queer as Folk, Antony prefers to keep a low profile insisting that he is actually quite shy.

Speaking of his appointment, Antony also said: “After many years working with Manchester Pride helping to sell tickets and introduce acts on the main stage, I am delighted to be appointed a patron of Manchester Pride. I look forward to the challenges the role will bring, especially in helping to promote and encourage equality for all, here in this most magnificent city of ours. No two words are better suited than Manchester and Pride.”