Rail operator Lumo has strengthened its support for the LGBTQ+ community by becoming the new weather sponsor of North East-based community broadcaster Pride Radio.
The partnership will see Lumo sponsor the station's weather bulletins, helping listeners across the UK stay up to date with forecasts throughout the day while further cementing the train operator's relationship with the LGBTQ+ media outlet.
The announcement follows a busy year of Pride-related activity for Lumo, which has backed a record number of Pride events across its network. Earlier this year, the operator donated £1,000 to help Pride Radio broadcast live from Newcastle Pride.
Lumo also unveiled a redesigned Pride train in 2026, celebrating the LGBTQ+ organisations it supports along its routes. The train features the logos of Pride Radio, OUT North East, Edinburgh Pride and Glasgow's Pride, highlighting the operator's commitment to inclusion beyond the annual Pride season.
Commenting on the new sponsorship, Richard Salkeld, Director of Communications and Partnerships at Lumo, said the company remained committed to supporting LGBTQ+ communities throughout the year. "While we can't promise sunshine every day, we can promise that we will always continue to champion inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ community," he said.
"We're very excited to be onboard with Pride Radio as their new weather sponsor as we further develop our partnership with the station and their dedicated team.
"2026 has been a landmark year for Lumo's support for Pride, with the launch of a new Pride train and support for more organisations than ever. Being a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community is incredibly important to us and something we'll continue to do throughout 2027."
Lumo operates fully electric services on the East Coast Main Line, connecting London King's Cross with Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow. The company also expanded this year with the launch of a new West Coast route serving communities including Stirling, Carlisle and Preston.
Pride Radio, which broadcasts on FM, DAB, online and via the Pride World Media app, reaches audiences around the world and says it is listened to in 127 countries. The station has previously highlighted that it attracts listeners in dozens of countries where LGBTQ+ people continue to face criminalisation.
Ben Lloyd, Commercial Manager at Pride Radio, welcomed the announcement and praised Lumo's ongoing support. "This is yet another example of the special relationship we've developed with Lumo, a company that truly understands what Pride is all about and how to support the work we do," he said.
"I can't wait to hear Lumo shine on our weather bulletins every hour. It's the perfect way for their customers to check whether it's shorts weather or time for a big coat before they head off to catch their train."
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