City celebrates life of gay footballer
Justin Fashanu, who played for Torquay United from 1991-1993, committed suicide 11 years ago.
Memorabilia will be on display at venues across Exeter, where Fashanu was well-known, next week.
Events have been organised as part of a nationwide celebration called Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) Culture History Month, which has taken place for the last four years.
Organisers hope to attract hundreds of people from across the South West to a series of events in the city.
Activities will include a heritage walk, an art project and a storyteller to entertain children.
A discussion forum will be led by writer Gillian E Hanscombe and Dr Michael Halls, director of South West gay charity Intercom Trust.
Alan Quick, spokesman for the Exeter events, said: "This is an important step forward in celebrating diversity in Exeter and the wider area of the South West served by the city.
"There are already similar Pride events in every major city in the UK but this will be the first with a culture, heritage and history theme. It will be a first for Exeter.
"Pride events are not about imposing any kind of lifestyle on others, they are about accepting people as they are from all walks of life and everybody having an opportunity to enjoy themselves."
Exeter Pride has the backing of Devon County Council, the University of Exeter, the police, Exeter Women's Aid, the NHS and community and support groups.
Mr Quick said: "We are working together to make Exeter an area where lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people and communities can live, work, and celebrate life free from discrimination, prejudice and fear."
Exeter LGBT History Month Pride will run from 10.30am to 3.30pm on Saturday, February 28.
Events will centre on a number of venues in the city, including many in Gandy Street, the Phoenix Arts Centre and Exeter Central Library.
For details, visit www.exeterlgbt historypride.co.uk
Justin Fashanu, who played for Torquay, committed suicide 11 years ago
