A PEACEFUL counter-protest will be held outside Colchester library tomorrow in response to a planned protest against LGBTQ+ storytime events. 

The Gazette understands a protest is due to be held outside Colchester Library tomorrow morning, over it hosting a Drag Storytime event.

During the month of February, Colchester Library is celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month, through its Kaleidoscope exhibition.

On the morning of Saturday, February 4, at 10.30am, a Drag Storytime event is planned for families to attend.

But it has been alleged protestors are planning to attend the event, in order to boycott it.

In response members of the LGTBQ+ community and allies intend to stage a peaceful counter-protest. 

Colchester Pride has issued a statement on social media. 

Speaking on this, Colchester Kings Rugby Club, the first inclusive rugby club, which strives to eliminate homophobia and transphobia, released an online statement addressing the protest earlier today on Twitter.

The statement reads: “In response to this (protest), members of the community are organising a peaceful counter-protest.

"We encourage people to attend to show a display of queer solidarity for our friends and artists taking part in the exhibition.

“Our club is founded on the principle that we work together as a team, and we stand up for those in our community.

“If you plan on attending tomorrow, be safe, be proud, be visible. Hate is not met with hate. Show your joy, energy and love.”