Open access rail operators Lumo and Hull Trains have strengthened their senior leadership teams with the appointment of Joe Gratton as their new Head of Public Affairs, as both operators continue a period of sustained growth and industry recognition.
Joe joins the First Rail Open Access team from Tees Valley Combined Authority, where he previously served as Chief of Staff. In his new role, he will be based across Newcastle, London, Hull and Preston, supporting both operators as they deepen engagement with stakeholders, decision‑makers and communities across England and Scotland.
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for both brands. Lumo, one of the UK’s best‑performing rail operators, has recently expanded its all‑electric East Coast Main Line services to include Glasgow and Falkirk High. The operator has also announced that its highly anticipated West Coast Main Line service will officially launch on 25 May, marking a major milestone for open access rail.
Both Lumo and Hull Trains are well known for their strong community focus, championing local causes and events across the regions they serve. Gratton will play a central role in building on this reputation while supporting the continued growth of both businesses.
Joe said he’s thrilled to be part of the team:
“It’s a very exciting time to be joining both Lumo and Hull Trains as we champion the huge benefits that open access rail services are bringing to communities across England and Scotland. We have a real economic success story to tell, and I look forward to getting around the country to do exactly this.
I developed a real passion for this industry when working on large scale transport projects in my previous role and this will be a brilliant challenge to help both operators build on the phenomenal success they’ve already had.”
Stuart Jones, Managing Director of First Rail Open Access, added:
“It’s a real pleasure to welcome Joe to the team and his passion for what we do is already very clear to see. Both Lumo and Hull Trains are continuing to boost job opportunities, strengthen communities and promote sustainable travel. Joe is going to be a key part of how we tell our story.”
Lumo has been operating on the East Coast Main Line for several years, linking Glasgow, Falkirk and Edinburgh with the North East of England and London. Its new West Coast route will connect London Euston directly with Stirling, calling at Milton Keynes, Nuneaton, Crewe, Preston, Carlisle, Lockerbie, Motherwell, Whifflet (serving Coatbridge), Greenfaulds (serving Cumbernauld) and Larbert.
Hull Trains currently operates seven direct weekday services between East Yorkshire and London King’s Cross, also serving Selby, Doncaster, Retford and Grantham. Prior to the launch of Hull Trains services on 25 September 2000, the route was served by just one train per day in each direction, underlining the transformational impact of open access rail.
Image credits: First Rail Open Access
