The UK rail industry is setting a new standard for inclusivity and solidarity with its groundbreaking move to host the world’s first Pride parade on a train. This innovative initiative marks a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ representation, reflecting the industry’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. By taking the celebration of Pride on the move, the event not only showcases the industry’s support for the LGBTQ+ community but also highlights the importance of visibility and advocacy in spaces that have historically lacked such representation. This historic event promises to make waves across both the rail sector and broader social spheres, creating a powerful symbol of unity and progress.

LGBTQ+ Rail Industry Comes Together for Inaugural Pride Parade on a Train at Alstom’s The Greatest Gathering Festival

In an unprecedented event that celebrates both inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ community, LGBTQ+ employees and allies from across the UK rail sector came together to participate in the world’s inaugural Pride parade on a train. This remarkable procession took place at Alstom’s The Greatest Gathering festival in Derby, an event marking the largest-ever assembly of both historic and modern trains. This Pride parade underscored the ongoing efforts within the UK rail industry to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, making history as a landmark moment for the sector.

The parade, which was part of the 2025 Railway 200 celebrations, was held at the Litchurch Lane Works in Derby, Alstom’s renowned train manufacturing site. The event drew participants from various prestigious railway organizations, including Alstom, Angel Trains, AtkinsRéalis, Avanti West Coast, Hitachi Rail, and Transport for London (TfL). The diverse group of individuals coming together for the event highlighted the collaborative nature of the rail sector’s commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion.

Leading the Parade: Iconic Performers and a Historic Train

A vibrant and celebratory atmosphere filled the air, as a group of notable drag performers led the parade. These talented individuals included Alexander Garnett-Scherer, Senior Operations Manager at TfL, known by his drag persona as Connie Tactless, the “Mother of Oyster”; Lee Nicholson-Brown, a London Underground train driver and performer as Lady Felicia; and Medusa Has Been, renowned as the “newest oldest showgirl in town.” Their colorful and spirited performances provided an energetic start to the parade, setting the tone for what would become a historic event.

The procession itself snaked through the 90-acre factory site, where a photoshoot was held in front of Avanti West Coast’s Pride Pendolino No. 390119 ‘Progress.’ This train was unveiled in 2020 and marked a significant moment as it became the first in the UK to be fully wrapped in the progressive Pride flag. The photoshoot in front of this symbolic train emphasized the railroad industry’s dedication to supporting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

The Parade’s Journey and ‘Trainbow’ Train

The parade continued its journey across Alstom’s Derby site, heading towards the 1.6 km-long Test Track. This segment of the site allowed attendees to board the Class 345 Aventra train, a modern marvel that regularly serves passengers on London’s Elizabeth Line. Special for this occasion, the train, which had returned to Derby for the event, was one of the key attractions for attendees. The unit selected for the parade, No. 345055, has been proudly displaying its own “trainbow” since 2023, making it an ideal representative for this special Pride parade.

The Class 345 Aventra train offered a unique opportunity for participants to celebrate aboard a train that has long been a symbol of inclusivity within the rail industry. The train’s design is a testament to Alstom’s dedication to diversity, and its involvement in the parade offered an exciting and historical experience. A special announcement was made during the ride to inform passengers of the parade’s significance, drawing enthusiastic applause from attendees as they reflected on the significance of the event.

A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Inclusion

The Pride parade was organized by Journey, a non-profit organization supporting LGBTQ+ professionals in the transportation sector. The event was part of a larger celebration from August 1st to 3rd, 2025, that attracted over 40,000 rail enthusiasts to Alstom’s Derby factory. This sold-out charity event was a major highlight of the Railway 200 celebrations, which commemorated the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, the world’s first modern railway.

As the UK’s leading supplier of new rolling stock and train services, Alstom has long been at the forefront of championing LGBTQ+ inclusivity within the rail industry. Since 2018, Alstom UK and Ireland has launched Voices of Pride+, an employee resource group designed to empower LGBTQ+ staff and allies. This group offers a space for employees to bring their authentic selves to work, fostering an inclusive work environment that encourages acceptance and support.

Beyond Pride celebrations, Alstom’s commitment to diversity extends to their community partnerships. The company is a proud supporter of Micro Rainbow, a charity that assists LGBTQI asylum seekers and refugees. Alstom funds a “Moving On Officer” through its Community Project Fund, providing crucial support to individuals seeking employment, education, and financial assistance.

The UK rail industry has made history by hosting the world’s first Pride parade on a train, emphasizing its commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion. This groundbreaking event highlights the importance of visibility and solidarity within public spaces, showcasing a significant step towards greater diversity and representation in the transport sector.

Showcasing Pride Across the UK’s Rail Network

Alstom’s fleet features several Pride-themed trains that demonstrate the company’s continued commitment to inclusivity. Among these is the London Overground Capitalstar No. 378205, wrapped with the message “Every Story Matters #LondonForEveryone.” The fleet also includes East Midlands Railway’s Class 158 Express Sprinter 158773 and West Midlands Railway’s Class 730 Aventra 730018, which was named ‘Hurst Street’ in honor of Birmingham’s Gay Village. Additionally, several Alstom-built trams, including those serving Nottingham Express Transit and Manchester Metrolink, proudly display “trambow” designs.

The event at The Greatest Gathering in Derby highlighted how the rail industry is not just about transportation; it’s about creating inclusive spaces for everyone. Through their continued support of Pride celebrations, Alstom and its partners in the rail sector are paving the way for a more inclusive future, where LGBTQ+ individuals and allies can come together, celebrate, and continue to break barriers within the industry. This Pride parade was a step toward an even more inclusive rail network for the future.