Pride has suffered its most serious blow yet, leaving its supporters fearing for its future.

Plans for next year’s event were thrown into chaos last night after its chairwoman quit yesterday.

Yvonne Barker walked out saying she felt bullied by local businesses and residents after a meeting to discuss the way forward for the organisation.

Her decision left Pride, which is desperately short of cash, with just an interim chairman to steer them through the next few difficult months.

But last night as trustees held crisis talks they assured supporters that the event would go ahead - as long as the finances can be raised.

Ms Barker, who had been a member of the board for four years, said she regretted having to stand down but said the way Pride staff and trustees had been treated was shameful.

Councillors said it was vital that Pride be preserved because of the benefits it brought to the city.