A CELEBRITY showcase has been lined up for Bournemouth's Pride event happening over August 3, 4 and 5.

The three-day event kicks off with the Pink Ball at The Pavilion tomorrow at 7.30pm, hosted by This Morning's flower expert Carl Wilde.

Carl will introduce celebrity guests The Vengaboys, Katrina Leskanich of Katrina and the Waves, and Claudette Pace who will sing the official Pride anthem.

Other entertainment follows from Yvette and her fabulous Love Muscle Boys, Fresh from the Fridge and DJ Jo Public, finishing at 2am.

Tickets cost £40 and all profits will be donated to Pride Bourne-mouth designated charities.

On Saturday head down to Meyrick Park for Party in the Park, billed as "Glastonbury with more taste".

The event closes with a Pink Picnic on the beach on Sunday - a free event where picnickers will remember people who have died of AIDS.

To book a ticket or find out more information about Pride Bournemouth access the web page at www.pridebournemouth.com.

See p17 of today's Daily Echo for a debate about the Gay Pride event.