THE streets of York will be packed with thousands of people this weekend, with two major events planned in the city.

York Pride, the biggest celebration of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in North Yorkshire will take place today, with thousands of people attended events around the city.

The event, now in its fifth year, will involve a live music event in Rowntree Park between 1pm and 6pm, featuring the Dame Shirley Bassey Experience, Bears Aloud, stalls and an adult bouncy castle.

Hugh Bayley, MP for York Central, will join the Lord Mayor and Sheriff in releasing a mass of rainbow balloons at 3pm, to commemorate David Kato – a Ugandan gay rights activist who was murdered in his own home in January.

Tomorrow, more than 6,000 runners will set off from Knavesmire through the streets of the city to take part in the 2011 Jane Tomlinson 10K run.

Local businesswoman Catherine Lee will compete in the run, marking her third 10K this year, following races in Hull and Leeds.

Catherine, who is raising money for Martin House Hospice, said: “I’m terrified, but proving something to myself I’m determined to help others less fortunate. I know it’s this extra motivation that will make me keep going.”

With an initial target of £500, Catherine, who is managing director of York-based Kaleidoscope Virtual Assistant Services, has so far raised more than £1,000 for the charity.

She is also using the exercise to prepare for her wedding in August, and is determined to complete her third and final run and still hopes to add to her sponsorship tally.

”The event starts at 9am and the public are advised that there will be a number of road closures in and around the city centre which will be in place from 7am until 2pm.

Also taking place this weekend is the Huby and Sutton Show, at Sutton Park, from 9am on Sunday.

The event will include show jumping and dressage events, agricultural displays and local craft and produce.

Entry costs £7 for adults, £3 for children, and £15 for family tickets.

Last minute places are still available for the Marie Curie Twilight Stroll on Sunday, at Castle Howard.

Registration costs £10, including a T-shirt, and starts at 6pm, with the walk starts at 7pm.

Don’t miss The Press on Monday for your special York 10K supplement, packed with pictures of this hugely popular event.