Richard Salkeld, former ITV Tyne Tees journalist and current Head of Communications at Lumo, has been awarded the prestigious Freedom of the City of London.

A North East communications expert renowned for his charitable work has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London.

Richard Salkeld, 39, a familiar face in Newcastle thanks to his high-profile roles with train operators and his efforts to showcase the region nationally, received the accolade at a ceremony in the historic Guildhall on Friday.

North East PR guru Richard Salkeld, renowned for his charity work the current Head of Communcations at Lumo, is awarded the Freedom of the City of London.
Pictured (second from left) with Jason Groves from the Company of Communicators, Richard's mum Barbara Salkeld, and Dr Ian Wingfield from Southwick Council
See story North News — North East PR guru Richard Salkeld, renowned for his charity work the current Head of Communcations at Lumo, is awarded the Freedom of the City of London. Pictured (second from left) with Jason Groves from the Company of Communicators, Richard's mum Barbara Salkeld, and Dr Ian Wingfield from Southwick Council See story North News | North News & Pictures Ltd

placeholder image — North East PR guru Richard Salkeld, renowned for his charity work the current Head of Communcations at Lumo, is awarded the Freedom of the City of London. Pictured (second from left) with Jason Groves from the Company of Communicators, Richard's mum Barbara Salkeld, and Dr Ian Wingfield from Southwick Council See story North News | North News & Pictures Ltd

Currently Head of Communications & Partnerships for Newcastle-based train operator Lumo, Richard has long been active in supporting charities, including the Royal Television Society, which helps young people break into creative industries.

His initiatives with Lumo have raised substantial funds for local causes, such as more than £25,000 for the Royal British Legion and £10,000 for the Discovery Museum’s "Tiny Tyneside" exhibition.

The Freedom of the City of London is one of the capital’s oldest honours, dating back to 1237.

Recipients join the ranks of notable figures including Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Sir Ian McKellen, Sir Chris Hoy, and Rachel Riley.

In a nod to tradition, the award includes the symbolic right to drive sheep across London Bridge.

Richard said: “It’s a moment of real pride, especially as a communicator from the North East.

“From reporting in Consett during my ITV Tyne Tees years to championing communities across the region, I’ve always believed in the power of meaningful storytelling.

“This honour reflects the people and organisations I’ve had the privilege to serve and support.”

Originally from Consett and now based in Durham, Richard began his career at ITV Tyne Tees, working on and off screen for six years before moving into PR and communications roles with major train operators along the East Coast Main Line and Great Western Railway.

Raoul Dixon, chief photographer at North News & Pictures, said: “No one deserves this accolade more than Richard.

“His passion for the North East and infectious enthusiasm for every project make him a joy to work with.”

Richard’s charitable and professional contributions continue to make a lasting impact on the region, solidifying his reputation as one of the North East’s most respected communicators.