BS3 LGBT creates community outside the centre

BS3 LGBT is a social group for all members of the LGBT+ community who live in BS3 and beyond. The group was set up in early 2013 and is currently run by Amy Moses and Carly Pearce came on board.

Amy and Carly are both through and through Bristolians and advocates for the joys of BS3. As Amy elaborated

“I’m originally from just outside of Bristol. After 5 years away at university I moved home and discovered North Street when I first started dating my (now) wife 5 and a half years ago. I have been living in the BS3 area for the last 4 years and love what the area has to offer! “

Carly emphatically agrees with Amy:

“I’ve lived and studied in Bristol all my life. Like Amy I live in the BS3 area currently and love all the restaurants, cafes and pubs the area has- loads of options for getting together with friends. I work in the centre so it’s an easy commute and great to come home via the harbourside- especially in the summer! “

The group was originally set up when the founders noticed that although there was a high proportion of LGBT+ people living in the BS3 area there weren’t many opportunities for them to connect and socialise with each other, as Carly explains:

“Clearly the group founders were right and there is a great appetite for casual get-togethers in the area. We know how hard it can be to meet other like-minded LGBT folk, especially if you’re not into the scene for whatever reason, so we wanted to offer an alternative where people could meet new friends and maybe try out some new pubs and cafes locally at the same time!

All of our events are in the BS3 postcode area but that’s the only limitation. We’ve had cocktail nights, theatre outings, Sunday lunch and board games, picnics, pub grub and drinks- all sorts! Our most popular events are always our pub quizzes. Our last quiz was Christmas 2015 and we had a record number of attendants- about 120!”

Anyone can go to BS3 LGBT events, the group welcomes all LGBT_ and LBGT+ allies. The only restriction may be if someone is under age and the event is in a pub but family friendly events are also organised during the year.

Amy and Carly are very keen to get people involved in the group:

“Something that we’re really keen for is to hear from other people about events that they might want to host. So if you’re reading this and thinking- “I’d really like to host a Sunday coffee morning” or something then get in touch via our email or Facebook page and let us know!

We’re more than happy to put the event up on the page. Hosting isn’t as scary as it sounds- it’s just a case of coming up with an idea and then making sure you’re there first and ready to make people feel welcome.’

Our next get together is on the 15th June at the Hen and Chicken but keep your eyes on our Facebook page for details of future events.’

For more information on BS3 LGBT see www.facebook.com/BS3lgbt

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