One Norfolk Christmas lights switch-on promises not to be a drag, but there will be a drag queen.
Kevin d’Odemont - also known as Miss Dee Licious - has been asked by Dereham Town Council to help bring the festive spirit by turning on the town’s festive lights on November 26.
The 43-year-old drag queen said he hoped the appearance would help build acceptance in the community.
“By being on the stage, my mission is to get people together to forget differences, promote acceptance, and let people know everyone is welcome, and all deserve a life to be loved,” he said.
“I want to talk with people who ask questions about our community, when I started drag I was aware of the need to bring it to local community events where LGBTQIA+ culture was not as visible.
“This is something I’ve never done. I’ve done a lot of events and community building, but this one is special because it is close to me, it is very important to me.”
Miss Dee Licious, who was named Miss Charity Drag UK Winner 2019 and 2020, will also host a ‘Licious Groto’ at the celebration, which is raising money for next year’s Dereham Does Pride event.
When not performing, Mr d’Odemont works as a carer and was previously a fitness instructor.
He is originally from Belgium and lives in Hockering with his husband Ed. He moved to the county when he was 22, having just come out as gay.
Mr d’Odemont said: “Norfolk was the first place to welcome me as a gay person. My life here has been fantastic and well-loved.
“I felt at home in Norfolk. People were not pointing at me, they were welcoming me.
"It's why I love Norfolk because it saved me, it was fantastic and 21 years on it still is.”
The celebration will start at 1pm and the lights will be switched on at 4.30pm.
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