This year's Pride, the flamboyant gay and lesbian festival, is still £8,500 short of sponsorship, with just 11 days left before the big day.

Organisers said they had funded 90 per cent of the costs, thanks to support from the community.

But they could be forced to axe some attractions unless the rest of the money is found.

Organisers fear some marquees and tents could be forced to abandon the event altogether, incurring substantial cancellation fees.

They have made a last-minute plea for businesses to help before time runs out.

Pride is asking people to support the Great City Auction this Saturday at Pool nightclub on Marine Parade.

Prizes include lunch every day for a year, a rug worth £500, Gucci sunglasses, club entry for a year, meals and cinema and theatre tickets, with a chance to meet the stars.

Pride in Brighton and Hove is one of the biggest gay and lesbian events in the UK, costing £107,000 to stage.

Toilets cost more than £7,000, power costs £5,000 and signers for the deaf cost £1,000.

Health and safety amounts to £15,000.

PJ Aldred, who chairs Pride in Brighton and Hove, said: "Add this to the hire of big tops, marquees and stages and you're facing a huge budget.

"The worst-case scenario is we might have to reduce the event, which is something we want to avoid at all costs.

"There are not many businesses that do not benefit greatly from the 50,000 people who enjoy the weekend festivities."

Up to 30,000 people are expected to fill the streets, from the seafront to Preston Park, for the parade on August 11.

Brighton and Hove City Council has supported the event by giving grants to local groups.

Volunteers have also toured bars and clubs with buckets, collecting thousands of pounds in donations. More funds have been raised by individuals and businesses joining the Pride organisation.

Last year, thousands of people travelled to Brighton to celebrate their sexuality. Hotels, bars and nightclubs were filled to capacity and almost £14,000 was raised for local groups.

Anyone who can offer major financial support can contact PJ on 07720 771048 or email: pj@prideinbrightonandhove.com or visit www.prideinbrightonandhove.com