Pride in Hull organisers to feature on Hull Trains podcast ahead of landmark anniversary celebration

Organisers of Pride in Hull are set to share the story behind the region's biggest LGBTQ+ celebration on Hull Trains' Moving Minds podcast as the event prepares to mark its 25th anniversary this weekend.

Andy Train and Lee Pearson, key members of the team behind Pride in Hull, will appear on the latest episode of the podcast to discuss the continuing importance of the event, which has grown into one of the city's flagship celebrations.

The special episode comes as Hull Trains announces further support for Pride in Hull by offering free travel to and from the city on Saturday, 25 July for people attending the event from Doncaster, Selby, Howden and Brough.

Hosted by former Emmerdale star Gemma Oaten, Moving Minds was launched earlier this year to coincide with Time To Talk Day. The podcast is recorded on board Hull Trains services along the East Coast Main Line and features guests sharing personal experiences and discussing mental health and wellbeing.

During the latest episode, Andy and Lee reflect on the evolution of Pride in Hull over the past quarter of a century and the role it continues to play in championing inclusion and supporting LGBTQ+ communities.

This year's event will centre around a main stage at Zebedee's Yard, featuring performances from Drag Race UK winner Ginger Johnson and West End star Kerry Ellis. Visitors can also enjoy a family area and community market.

Andy Train, Chair of Pride in Hull, said: "We'd like to thank the team at Hull Trains for six amazing years of supporting this iconic event for the city.

"On our 25th anniversary, Pride in Hull continues to be more vital than ever and it's an event that celebrates our city and the people who make it what it is.

"Joining Gemma on the Moving Minds podcast is a really special moment for us to take stock, speak about our own personal stories and raise awareness of mental health within LGBTQ+ communities. I hope the episode is an interesting listen that also gives an insight into why Pride continues to be so important."

Gemma Oaten said she was looking forward to attending the celebrations and hearing more about what visitors can expect. "I can't wait to head along to Pride in Hull this year, so getting the chance to get a sneak preview on what's coming up from Andy and Lee is amazing," she said.

"Hosting this podcast is a dream come true because I get to champion the people who make our home city so special."

Hull Trains, which has supported Pride in Hull for the past six years, says its backing of the event reflects its commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Nathan Rayne, Interim Service Delivery Director at Hull Trains, said: "We wanted to mark the 25th anniversary of Pride in Hull in style and what better way than to invite the team behind it onto Moving Minds?

"The event continues to be a powerful opportunity to champion equality, respect and understanding, as we stand proudly in support of our LGBTQ+ communities."

Moving Minds is available to watch on the Hull Trains YouTube channel and can also be accessed through major podcast platforms. Further episodes featuring celebrity guests and local figures are planned in the coming months.

Meanwhile, thousands are expected to attend Pride in Hull as the event celebrates 25 years of championing equality, diversity and inclusion in the city.