London has unfortunately seen many of its queer venues go by the wayside. However, there is one person who is working tirelessly to put the queer spaces back in to West London. QX spoke to Aubrey Crawley, founder and promoter of the West London Queer Project.
Tell us a bit about yourself Aubrey.
I’m originally from South Africa but have lived in leafy West London since 1998. My day job is in aviation finance, I run a small events and social media business and I’m a budding photographer.
Why the West London Queer Project?
When I first came to live in West London there used to be gay bars (that’s what we called them back then) dotted all over place, from Earls Court right through to Kingston. We had at least 15 different places to choose from.
But sadly, over the years these venues have mostly closed down leaving the local LGBTQ+ community nowhere to meet, socialise and feel safe. My aim is to fill that void with social and professional events, outdoor activities and all and anything that can bring the community together.
How has the project been received?
Incredibly well! I get the most amazing messages from people thanking me because they met their partners and/or made new friends at one of our events.
How are you enjoying it?
It’s incredibly time consuming but far more rewarding.
What advice would you give to someone trying to start up a project like this in their area?
Start small, be prepared to give up a lot of your time, get ‘social media savvy’, be prepared for criticism and beg all of your friends to come to your events.
What are your plans for the future?
I aim to grow the WLQP and create more spaces and events in our side of London. Next week is our first ‘West London Walks’, where we will be meeting at Kew Bridge and walking to Richmond and I’m hoping that this will become a monthly event.
I’m also in talks with a local cinema to host LGBTQ film screenings, festivals and sing-alongs. Follow us on social media for more details
WLQP meets every week at The George IV. They have a variety of acts on through out December. Go to WLQP for more info and tickets.
Every Sunday. 6pm-11pm. The Boston Room, The George IV, 185 High Road, Chiswick, London, W4 2DR
WLQP Social media: Twitter, Instagram
Website: https://www.wlqp.org/
http://www.westlondonqueerproject.com
