Who are you?

Claire Mooney

What do you do?

I'm a singer, songwriter, performer, community artist and creative consultant.

How did you get involved in Manchester Pride as a patron?

I'm a born and bred Mancunian and I've supported Manchester Pride for many years through my involvement with Women's Space so when I was asked to be a patron I was delighted to accept.

What are your aspirations for Manchester Pride?

Since its inception Manchester Pride has been a celebratory event. I hope it will continue to be so while it develops more community and grassroots involvement. Our community is richly diverse and I hope Pride maintains its aim to be inclusive. Our rights in the LGBT community have come from some courageous people standing up and being counted. I hope Pride can develop links globally to support those who don't experience the same civil liberties as we do. (I know I don't ask for much - but you did ask!)

When was your first Pride?

At least 10 years ago - it must have been a good one as I can hardly remember it! I do recall it was an incredibly positive experience - safe and celebratory.

What are you most looking forward to at this year's event?

I'm really pleased that there are more community activities this year leading up to the Big Weekend so I'm looking forward to the brilliance of these events. I also have a special fondness for Women's Space and hope it prospers. But most of all I'm looking forward to a 10 day Festival that is a successful celebration of the best of us - safe, friendly, inclusive, welcoming and fun, with eyes wide open that it's giving financial support to important LGBT charitable organisations.