The final guaranteed week of service for the old Tyne and Wear Metro trains has begun, marking the end of an era for the region's iconic transport network. Nexus, the transport authority, will operate a Class 599 train on both the Yellow and Green lines from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. daily until Friday, June 26, 2026.
A Legacy of 46 Years
The old trains have provided 46 years of service, travelling half a billion kilometres and carrying 1.7 billion customers. While occasional old trains may still be seen after this week, this period offers the last guaranteed opportunity for passengers to travel on them.
Cathy Massarella, managing director of Nexus, said: "These old trains have been loyal servants to the region for nearly 50 years now, but it's time to move to our new fleet, and say goodbye, and a very big thank you, for all that they have done for the region."
Metro Memories
Massarella added: "Anyone who lives in Tyne and Wear will have a Metro memory, and they are really sewn into the consciousness of the region, as one of the most famous brands. We were saying earlier that there have probably been thousands of people who have worked on this train over the years, so it really is an icon of the region."
Retired train driver Bill Dodds, who operated the old fleet for 34 years, shared his reflections: "I started driving Metros in 1980 when the system first opened, and I was only 24 at the time. A lot of the older drivers who I was working with had been driving steam trains when they were younger, then they moved to diesel trains, and then electric trains."
Community Impact
Dodds recalled the Metro's launch: "It was an interesting and exciting time for people in Tyne and Wear when the Metro launched, with new trains and new stations connecting communities. We were able to get around for work, leisure purposes, and nights out, so much easier, so I think that it was a great benefit for us."
He praised the old trains' longevity: "I think the new trains are great, but I love the old trains as well, and they were only designed for 30 years so it is impressive that they have been stretched to 46 years. They've certainly done their job well, but the new trains are fantastic, so I think there is a great future for Metro, with possible extensions around the region, so exciting times ahead for everyone."
Photographs Mark the Occasion
A collection of 21 photographs captures the start of the final official week of service, including images of Nexus Managing Director Cathy Massarella and retired driver Bill Dodds with the last remaining Class 599 trains. The photos also feature tickets from the old trains, commemorating the end of an era for the Tyne and Wear Metro.
