The former ‘Homo Hero’ award-winner Jackie Crozier has been elected as the new Chair of Manchester’s Gay Village Business Association (VBA).
Jackie was unanimously selected by representatives of local businesses around Canal Street.
The former Manchester Pride Director was given a Homo Hero award for being ‘Community Champion of the Year’ by the LGF, has has also been named as one of the UK’s most inspiring LGBT people by Attitude magazine.
The events coordinator takes over from Andrew Strokes, Chief executive of Manchester Marketing, and will remain a George House trust Ambassador while assuming the role.
Speaking about the new position, Jackie said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have been elected as the new chair of the VBA, and hope to make my predecessor, Andrew Stokes, proud.
“He has been a vocal ambassador for Manchester’s Gay Village for many years, and I pledge to work tirelessly to build on the foundations he has laid to develop and market our iconic Village.
“Manchester’s Gay Village is an integral part of the cultural fabric of the city, and is an extremely important place for many LGBT people, their friends and families.
“I look forward to helping create a fantastic future for Manchester’s Gay Village.”
The VBA was launched to attract visitors to the internationally known LGBT district whilst ensuring staff and visitors are protected.
Jackie was involved in the running of Manchester’s Gay Pride Weekend for 6 six years before stepping down as director in 2011.
As well as Pride, Jackie has worked on events for British Transplant Games and Marie Curie Cancer Care.
Michael ‘Polly’ Pollard, deputy chair of the VBA, and co-owner of Taurus Bar, said: “Jackie is already an influential figure both in the Gay Village and Manchester in general – so this appointment seems both natural and fitting.
“We look forward to Jackie’s ideas, passion, and enthusiasm at our weekly meetings.”
Happy Monday’s singer Rowetta took to Twitter to express her delight at the new appointment.
She said: “Always my favourite Manchester champion. Go Girl. Proud of you. I know you <3 my city xxx #manchester.”
Image courtesy of Visit Manchester, via YouTube, with thanks.
