Soho Drag

 © 2012, Peter Marshall
The start of the race was rather crowded
People can and will do all sorts of things for charity, and if the idea of dressing up as a woman in high heels and running a kilometre around the centre of London doesn’t appeal to every man, there were certainly plenty of takers in Soho for the second Soho Drag Queens Race for Charity, and the cause, the Albert Kennedy Trust, which works with 16-25 year old lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans young people who are homeless or live in a hostile environment is a worthwhile one, and obviously close to the hearts of many customers of the Admiral Duncan in Old Compton St.

© 2012, Peter Marshall

For some of those taking part drag was obviously their normal gear while others seemed a little shy, and a few were perhaps regretting having signed up for the event but were determined to go through with it. Many had collected large amounts from sponsors to take part and have a great deal of fun in what is however a serious fund-raising event.

© 2012, Peter Marshall

Most of those taking part were people who are very aware of their image and who were posing every time they saw a camera – and there were many of those around, with the event attracting large numbers of tourists as well as regulars in the area.

© 2012, Peter Marshall
The race winner blows a kiss to my camera

© 2012, Peter Marshall

Before and after the race there were performances by a number of entertainers, some of whom also ran or walked in the race. One of the contestants came in a Pussy Riot inspired costume and joined in on air guitar as Rose Garden was performing. It really was an event where everyone was having some fun and for a serious purpose.

More pictures in Soho Drag Queens Race for Charity on My London Diary.

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My London Diary : Buildings of London : River Lea/Lee Valley : London’s Industrial Heritage

All photographs on this and my other sites, unless otherwise stated are by Peter Marshall and are available for reproduction or can be bought as prints.

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