A Carlton man has told of the challenges he encountered as a professional drag queen during lockdown.
Ash Cross is no stranger to a full glam look, extravagant wigs and sparkly false nails.
Behind the glitter and captivating looks however, the 55-year-old is hiding a story of the 'depressing' time when he has been off stage due to Covid lockdown.
Having been diagnosed with diabetes just before lockdown started, Ash left the stage to isolate in his house in Carlton, far from the stages that he has been performing on for the last nine years.
"I did struggle mentally during lockdown", he says.
"And I am not ashamed to say that I had therapy because of it.
"I was diagnosed with diabetes just before we went into lockdown, so I have been classed as extremely vulnerable.
"This meant that I could not go outside at all, or see anyone.
"Can you imagine how hard it has been for me, someone who is always surrounded by people and used to perform on stage every week?
"This was my worst nightmare - to stop doing what I love the most."
Now he had his two jabs and is ready to go back on the 'glorious stage' as Kitty Tray, his drag queen persona.
He has already started his regular shows in the city, and has more national appearances lined up for the end of June.
"It is baby steps for now, but I am sure that we will all go back to normal soon", he said.
"I think lockdown has taught us to be more reflective, conscious and savvy with the way we spend our time and money.
"I went out to have breakfast this morning, and I just felt like it was such a special thing.
"In the past, people used to take things for granted, but I think Covid has taught us to be more appreciative of what we have got."
Back in pre-pandemic times, he had shows in Manchester, London, Birmingham, Glasgow and more - claiming to be the first drag queen performing in Lithuania.
His journey to becoming a local celebrity in the industry started nine years ago, when he left his job as a photography teacher at Central College in Nottingham.
He said: "I never did drag queen when I was at college.
"It all started after I watched all the five seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race and fell in love with it.
"I enjoy making other people happy through what I do - it is very rewarding."
Speaking of being part of the LGBTQ+ community and raising awareness during the pride month, Ash added: "There is still a bit of resistance against our community, and maybe some stigma around drag queens too.
"People have to understand that drag queens do not reflect what gay people are like - they are an extreme version.
"We do educate our public about acceptance.
"Our shows are not just about gender or sexuality - it is about expressing yourself.
"It does not matter if you are gay, trans or straight - everyone is welcome to our shows.
"It is about escapism, and making people forget about their worries for two hours - that is when you know that you have done the right job."
