Newcastle-based train operator, Lumo, has put its fully electric train service to the test, by challenging two popular drag queens from the North East to race to London – one by train and the other by plane.
The race was set ahead of an exciting few weeks of Pride celebrations in the region, with Northern Pride aiming to welcome more than 80,000 people into Newcastle city centre this weekend (19-21 July 2024), followed by a month-long series of events as part of Pride in Gateshead throughout August. Both supported by Lumo as part of the company’s commitment to partnerships supporting local communities.
Local drag artists PlastiQ (@jackplastiq) and Sambuca (@Sxmbuca), began their race in the centre of Newcastle at Grey’s Monument, before splitting off on their individual trips.
Sambuca set off to Central Station for the Lumo train to London King’s Cross, while PlastiQ headed to Newcastle Airport to catch a flight to London Heathrow. Both made their way to the final meeting point at Convent Garden, where Sambuca comfortably won the race with more than 30 minutes to spare and 95% less carbon than flying.
Lumo instigated the race to show that travelling by Lumo train is the fastest, best value*, most convenient and environmentally friendly way to travel from the heart of Newcastle to the centre of London.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Lumo, said:
“Whilst this race was a bit of fun in the run-up to the Pride celebrations here in the North East, it has further demonstrated that our fully electric trains provide the quickest, cleanest and most cost-effective way to travel between Newcastle and London. Sambuca made it to the meeting point well ahead of PlastiQ, with a big price difference too.
“As a Newcastle-based company we are passionate about keeping the city and wider region connected, while maintaining our focus on eco-friendly travel as well as giving a platform for two talented performers to showcase their skills on the move.”
Lumo became the first long-distance domestic travel company to eliminate plastic bottles from its services earlier this year by providing a sustainable alternative, so it was fitting that PlastiQ was tasked with flying to London.
The video, shared on Lumo’s social channels, highlights other benefits of taking the train such as enjoying extended leg-room, at-seat power, free WiFi, staying connected with mobile phones and being able to choose from a range of locally sourced tea and coffee.
The Lumo fare was £58.90 compared to £154 for the airline fare between Newcastle and London. The best value Lumo fares are booked direct via the Lumo website and start from £30.90.