Tyneside train operator Lumo is showing its support for local independent businesses in Gateshead ahead of the town’s first Pride event this month, by showcasing some of the town’s hidden gems in a video taking social media by storm.
Popular North East drag queens Danni Delonco and Mutha Tucka present the fun four-minute film featuring a range of shops from the Big Fat Donut Co to bars like Axis, Microbus and well-established pubs like The Central and Station East, as well as activities such as Hot Pod Yoga and even getting a tattoo by the talented team at Mushu Tattoo.
Filming took place in early August and was supported by Gateshead Council. Lumo is committed to celebrating and supporting local suppliers and small businesses so commissioned the video to help give the businesses a boost ahead of Pride in Gateshead on 24th and 25th August 2024. The video also helps communicate that
Gateshead is just a short walk over the Tyne or one stop on the Metro from Newcastle central station, the nearest station for Lumo and other train operator’s mainline services.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director at Lumo, said: “Lumo is a proud supporter of Pride in Gateshead but we wanted to go further to support the town and celebrate some of the many great local independent businesses both locals and visitors to the area can experience and enjoy, all within easy reach from our Lumo train services.
“We’re keen to play an active role in the communities we serve, and that extends to the whole of the North East which is a key catchment area for customers and colleagues alike. Gateshead’s railway quarter has developed into a vibrant mix of independent businesses in recent years, so our sponsorship of Gateshead Pride is a great opportunity to promote some of the other things to see and do nearby. We hope it’ll help give business a boost.”
Lumo is the main stage sponsor for the end-of-festival Pride on Tyne concert taking place on Sunday 25 August with pop sensation Sonia headlining the free event alongside a special appearance from this year’s Mr Gay World finalists.
Gateshead based retail consultant Graham Soult makes a brief cameo appearance in the video which has already achieved more than 10,000 views on social media.
Graham, whose work supports and champions independent businesses UK-wide, said: “As a passionate advocate for strong partnerships to help transform and strengthen local high streets, I’m full of admiration for this fun and engaging project between Lumo and the local businesses based in the railway arches of the town.
“As someone who travels the UK to help advise on how high streets can adapt and grow to meet changing consumer demands, it’s great to see this brilliant work taking place on our doorstep.”
Peter Darrant, Chair of Out North East, said: “I am incredibly grateful for the support Lumo has given to Pride in Gateshead, throughout the month and especially for their very kind offer to be main stage sponsor for the Pride on Tyne concert.
“Lumo is an amazing community partner because they approach everything with a real willingness to help in any way they can.”
10 local businesses feature in the film which also illustrates the ease of either walking or taking the Metro from Newcastle Central Station to reach the businesses predominantly based on Wellington Street.
Lumo was recently awarded ‘Green Innovation Business of the Year’ at the recent North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, recognising the rail operator’s commitment to sustainability and championing local partnerships.