Patrons, performers and supporters of the charity Manchester Pride were out in force today, to join volunteer charity collectors at Manchester Airport.

Patrons John Amaechi, Antony Cotton and Adam Zane were joined by Cuban cabaret diva Margarita Pracatan in collecting donations for the charities and organisations that Manchester Pride supports.

A registered charity since 2007, the organisation aims to support a wealth of community organisations, including the Lesbian & Gay Foundation’s free condom and lube scheme, the George House Trust HIV welfare fund, as well as a series of grants available for local LGBT and HIV support groups.

Since 2003, Manchester Pride has raised and distributed over £1million to local organisations.

easyJet and Manchester Airport are supporting the initiative as headline sponsors of this year’s festival. Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Commercial Manager, said: “As a lively and diverse airline, easyJet is delighted to be part of Manchester Pride 2012 and all of our great people are really looking forward to the weekend. However, it’s important for us all to remember the charitable side of Pride and we are just as excited to be supporting today’s events.”

John Stewart, Chief Executive at Manchester Pride said, “Whilst the festival is in full swing, it is important to remember the focus is to support the vibrant, colourful community that we are part of, and initiatives such as this provide us with a unique opportunity to raise funds to support so many vital projects.”

“The Airport is an ideal location for this, with thousands of visitors arriving ahead of the Big Weekend.

Patrick Alexander, Head of Aviation Marketing for the Manchester Airports Group (MAG), said: “By having the charity collectors in the terminals we are able to remind staff and passengers that Manchester Pride is about more than just the Big Weekend but also an important and respected charity. Our joint sponsorship of the festival, along with one of our largest airlines, easyJet allows us to demonstrate our commitment to the LGBT community as we prepare to welcome thousands of international visitors to the region.”

Collections in all terminals will take place during Manchester Pride, you can also donate online at manchesterpride.com/donate.

Manchester Pride is in full swing, with the Big Weekend starting on Friday, headlined by reunited pop royalty, Steps.

For more information on Manchester Pride visit manchesterpride.com