‘Pride’ bus to join the festival fun and games in Chelmsford

A First Bus double-decker emblazoned with the Pride colours and a message of community support promises to be a big attraction at the Essex Pride festival this weekend (Saturday 20 June).

First Bus in Essex has been a supporter of the region’s Pride celebrations for many years and the importance of the richness that comes from diversity and inclusivity across society is one that resonates strongly with the operator’s values.

Garry Ormes, Chair of Essex Pride, said: “We are very proud at Essex Pride to be partnering with First Bus.

“Essex Pride is a safe and inclusive event for LGBTQ+ individuals, families and allies, and offers an opportunity for the whole community to join together. Pride is more important than ever, and we welcome your support of this important event, which aims to encourage LGBTQ+ people to be themselves in their local communities.”

He added: “Pride plays a big part in encouraging acceptance of everyone regardless of gender or sexuality. We look forward to seeing you there, regardless of who you love.”  

Staff from First Bus depots in the region will march in the parade through Chelmsford and then join the ‘Pride Bus’ which will be positioned at the festival in Central Park to host storytelling sessions arranged by Essex Pride together with games to win Pride-themed prizes.

Jonathon Hunt, General Manager for First Bus in Essex, said: “Our business is on a journey to a place where everyone is welcome, can be their true selves and can succeed.

“We have Inclusion Networks made up of colleagues with lived experience and or allies of the particular community, covering every role and every level. This is helping us to build a team that represents the diversity and difference in the communities we serve.”

Picture caption: The First Bus ‘Pride Bus’ had plenty of visitors at last year’s festival.

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