EAST Lothian commuters using the Lothian Buses service could be in for a colourful surprise as the company unveils its brand-new Pride bus.

The Edinburgh and Lothians bus service have stepped forward as the official transport partner with Edinburgh Pride, not only launching its eye-catching new bus but supplying the Pride march with two open-topped buses for its event on Saturday.

The bus will be sharing its time on bus routes throughout the region, including in East Lothian.

Gaynor Marshall, Lothian’s communications director, said: “Lothian are thrilled to be expanding our support for Pride Edinburgh as their official transport partner for this year.

"As one of the largest employers in Edinburgh with over 2,500 people across our business, Pride Edinburgh shares our ethos of creating a culture of diversity, equality and inclusion.

"We really look forward to seeing our amazing, eye catching and vibrant bus on the streets around Edinburgh and the Lothians celebrating the diversity of our capital city.”

Brett Herriot from Pride Edinburgh added: “We are delighted to develop our partnership with Lothian, in this year where Prides around the world mark the 50th anniversary of the stonewall uprising, the global starting point for the pride movement, and in Lothian's centenary year it’s a potent marker on how far we have come on the journey to equality for all irrespective of colour, creed, gender of sexuality.

"The new Pride bus will be a shining beacon in the city and will showcase Lothian's inclusive working environment and the welcoming service it provides for all citizens of the capital city.”

The Pride Scotia March kicks off at 11.30 am on Saturday in Edinburgh. More information can be found at prideedinburgh.org.uk/march