After the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic led to the cancellation of many Pride events, Avanti West Coast came up with the idea of wrapping the train to help promote Pride.

Billed as the biggest Pride flag the UK has seen on the side of a train, the design is based on the most recent iteration of the flag. This sees the addition of black, brown, light blue, pink and white to bring people of colour, transgender people and those living with or who have been lost to HIV/AIDS to the forefront.

Aside from the wrap, the train has been filled with literature, stories and posters promoting Pride, while on-board announcements will also inform passengers about Pride.

The 11-carriage, 265m-long train embarked on its first official journey with the wrap on August 25th, entirely staffed by an LGBTQ+ crew for the trip from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly.

Train manager Paul Austin says: “This is about being accepted for who I am and representing the LGBTQ+ community we serve across our network. Being a part of the UK’s first all LGBTQ+ crew is a sign of the steps we’re taking towards a more inclusive, diverse and equal society and I am so proud to be involved today.”

Avanti West Coast executive director, commercial, Sarah Copley adds: “It is a symbol of our commitment to diversity and inclusion as it travels up and down the West Coast Main Line. We Live Proud 365 days a year, not just today.

“I am so proud to be a part of a business where our people represent the communities we serve. We are always listening to them and customers to ensure our diversity and inclusion  strategy is relevant.

“Our new train livery is a powerful example of keeping the conversation going.”

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