A GAY event is looking to crown the next Mr Brighton Bear this year.
Entries have opened for the competition which is part of a weekend of fun for the LGBT community.
Brighton Bear Weekend chairman Graham Munday said the competition has become the highlight of the event.
With Pride being cancelled, the bear weekend is currently one of the biggest events on the LGBT calendar this summer.
It looks set to bring in tourists to venues in the city which have been hit by the Covid pandemic.
Last year’s event was held online, but this year those taking part will be able to enjoy the event in the flesh.
The event is for “bears”, a slang gay term for burly men who are sometimes heavy-set or hairy, but friends of the community are also welcome to enjoy weekend.
Brighton Bear Weekend is returning in 2021
Graham Munday said: “This is the third year we have held Mr Brighton Bear and, without a doubt, it has become a real highlight of the weekend.
“It’s great fun and it attracts a real mix of guys, so I would encourage anyone thinking about entering to give it a go.
Brighton Bear Weekend is returning in 2021
“There’s no need to be shy, you’ll be made to feel very welcome.”
Find out more about this event: Bears want everything to be just right for big weekend on Brighton's LGBT calendar
Organisers said the live final this year will be on July 23 in Kemp Town, with online voting and in-person voting at the event.
Entry to the competition is free, and entrants are asked to provide photos of themselves relating to three categories.
One is "beachwear", the other is "night out on the town", and the third, perhaps most risque, is "wear what you dare".
Mr Brighton Bear 2020, Gavin, shows off his award, sash and crown
A short interview will be filmed and shared online to help furry and non-furry friends decide who should be crowned Mr Brighton Bear 2021.
The winner will get a £100 cash prize and the “fabulous” sash and crown, while the runner up takes £25.
Brighton Bear Weekend is returning in 2021
Organisers say the event supports The Brighton Rainbow Fund to give money to LGBT charities and volunteer groups in the city.
More details about the event are available online by visiting brightonbearweekend.com/mrbrightonbear/
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