Lumo managing director Helen Wylde steps down

has announced that the managing director of new East Coast Main Line open access operator Lumo, Helen Wylde, left her role on January 4 to take up a position outside the rail industry. Newcastle-based Lumo launched its services between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh Waverley in late October, with the aim of attracting passengers off the regional airlines, offering a more environmentally-friendly and sustainable alterative to air travel. The service was launched with highly competitive fares between the two cities.

First Rail’s managing director, non-franchised businesses, Andy Mellors, said: “Having led the mobilisation through the challenges presented by the pandemic over the last two years, Helen leaves Lumo with its 100% electric, affordable, and innovative service proposition firmly established. I would like to thank Helen and wish her well in the future.” First Rail’s commercial projects director Phil Cameron is now acting as interim managing director until a replacement is appointed by First Group. Mr Cameron also worked with the Lumo team throughout the mobilisation period of the operation and will ensure a level of continuity over the coming months.