The gay life goes on show

Britain's largest homosexual lifestyle exhibition will take place at Earls Court on 10 and 11 December, writes Greg Orme.

More than 30,000 people are expected to attend Gay Lifestyles, which attracted 10,000 in its first year - 1992. Organisers expect it to break even for the first time.

The exhibition has attracted interest from many companies including Nike, the American sports footwear manufacturer, and the Virgin group. The 250 stands will reflect aspects of gay life from night-clubbing and fitness to jobs, and include international exhibitors the Amsterdam Tourist Board and the Key West Business Guild, from Florida.

Zipper, a British gay magazine, is backing a stand to appeal to certain gay lifestyles with bondage gear and sex aids on sale.

'This will be the biggest and the best Gay Lifestyles exhibition ever,' said Brian McLaughlin, the organiser. 'There is no equivalent anywhere in the world.'

Last year eight volunteer Metropolitan officers set up an exhibit and promoters are hoping that the 'pink' police will return.