The official launch of a pioneering Kicking Homophobia Out of Oldham campaign takes place in Oldham Town Centre today (Friday) as part of International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO).

This year's IDAHO event, which runs from 11am to 3pm outside The Spindles Shopping Centre, follows on from a hugely successful gay rugby event hosted by Oldham Roughyeds earlier in the month.

IDAHO aims to raise awareness of the impact of homophobia on lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people throughout the world - and also the effect on families, friends and colleagues.

The Mayor Of Oldham will officially launch 'Kicking Homophobia Out of Oldham' at 1.30pm.

Oldham Roughyeds Chief Executive Chris Andrews and Oldham Athletic Chief Executive Alan Hardy will also speak about the key roles they are playing in tackling this important issue.

Civic leaders and a representative from Oldham PCT and Greater Manchester Police will also be involved - signing a Roughyeds and Oldham Athletic shirt and kicking/ throwing pink rugby balls to demonstrate their commitment to Kicking Homophobia Out of Oldham.

They will then sign the giant Kicking Homophobia Out of Oldham pledge card, that all members of the public will be invited to add to throughout the day, before symbolically 'kicking' our commemorative pink rugby balls into the air.

And at 1.45pm we'll ask everyone to come on and 'feel the noise' with a minutes cheering so Oldhamers can shout loud and clearly that homophobia in any shape or form is unacceptable.

Flamboyant comedian Jonathan Mayor will be hosting the day's events and there'll be live music and sporting demonstrations.  The Oldham Youth Service Buzz will also be on site, providing information throughout the day.

Mark Swanwick, Project Manager for Kicking Homophobia Out of Oldham, said:

" With the Roughyeds and Latics taking an active lead, and thanks to widespread support from partners across the community, we hope to see the 'Kicking Homophobia Out of Oldham' campaign make a big impact on IDAHO day".

Oldham's IDAHO event is free and we hope everyone who can will come along and show their support.