Lorraine Chase still loves Luton

Lorraine Chase has joined a ‘Love Luton’ promotion thanks to her long association with Luton Airport, now known as London Luton Airport.

The former Emmerdale actress has teamed up again with airline easyJet to build on Luton’s momentum for its ‘Love Luton’ campaign. The airline called upon Lorraine Chase to officially christen its new ‘Love Luton’ named aircraft as part of the town’s efforts to secure city status.

Paul Simmons, easyJet’s UK Director, said: “Lorraine has become synonymous with Luton Airport since her Campari advert so there was no-one better suited to christen our ‘Love Luton’ aircraft. We’re immensely proud of our home town and wholeheartedly support the bid. City status would offer Luton the chance to build on its strengths to become one of Europe’s youngest and most vibrant cities.

“It would help the town attract new businesses and investment, boosting the local jobs market and economic growth. easyJet’s international headquarters is located in Luton and we employ more than 1350 people who are based at the airport. The city bid is clearly very important to us.”

Lorraine Chase, checked in easyJet’s first ever passenger at Luton Airport in 1995 returned earlier this week to christen the plane and also to take time to lend her official support by signing city status bid petition.

The Campari advert kick-started Lorraine’s career and spawned her catchphrase “Luton Airport!” as a reply to the question: “Were you truly wafted here from paradise?” The ad inspired the 1979 hit record Luton Airport by Cats U.K.

Councilor Hazel Simmons, Leader of Luton Borough Council said: “Luton’s bid for city status has attracted overwhelming support from the people of Luton and its businesses. It’s fantastic! Thanks to Lorraine and easyJet, the news of our bid will become known across Europe.”

A decision of the ‘Love Luton’ bid is due to be made by the Government in early February 2012.