Hundreds march in Bournemouth town centre to ‘reclaim the streets’

On Friday evening, hundreds of women marched through Bournemouth town to “reclaim the streets”.

The annual Foxstrut was described as a “joyous and bold call” for safer, more inclusive streets for women, girls and LGBT people.

The march started at Horseshoe Common to the stop at The Branksome in Bournemouth Triangle.

Among the fancy dress participants in the Foxstrut were representatives of the Bobcats American Football team and organisations such as Dorset Mind and Bourne-Free.

Other key supporters included Arts University Bournemouth, Bournemouth University, and Julie Johns and Nicky Robinson, the creators of the Footbus app.

Co-creators of the Foxstrut Jaye Jackson and Lorna Rees told the Bournemouth Echo that they were “amazed” at the turnout and “flood of messages received surrounding the event”.

Jayne said: “We were overwhelmed by the sheer enthusiasm and support from both strutters and passersby.

“People stopped, asked questions, and once they understood our mission, every single one of them offered encouragement—thumbs up, cheers, and smiles. It’s proof that Bournemouth stands with us.”

Lorna added: “This year was not only bigger, brighter, and bolder but also deeply personal for me as a tribute to my brilliant nan, Maureen, one of the original participants in the Urban Fox photography project that inspired Foxstrut.”

Foxstrut, which originated in Bournemouth, has inspired similar marches across the UK.

Lorna said: “This is just the beginning. We’re seeing interest from other towns and cities wanting to join the Foxstrut family. Together, we can create safer, more inclusive streets nationwide.”

Jayne agreed, explaining: “Reclaiming the streets is about more than safety; it’s about visibility, community, and joy.

“We’re deeply moved by everyone who joined us in making this year’s Foxstrut truly unforgettable.”

Featured image via bmouthbobcats’s Instagram