Passengers on the Tyne and Wear Metro are now able to report antisocial behaviour quickly and without cost via WhatsApp.

The new number (07345 222 710) is live and replaces the previous text alert service. The switch also means customers will no longer face network charges for sending a report and can also share photos and video footage at no extra cost.

The service allows customers to discreetly report issues such as vandalism, graffiti, rowdy behaviour, door obstruction, or threatening and abusive conduct. Alerts are received by a customer service desk at South Gosforth station’s control room, so action can be taken quickly.

Operator Nexus says the change will make it much simpler for passengers to raise concerns directly with Metro staff. Unlike the old system, messages no longer need to begin with ‘REPORTIT’.

For those who don’t use WhatsApp, SMS messaging can still be used to send messages to the same number. Reports can also be made on the Pop app via the ‘Report It’ function, by using station Help Points, or by pressing the call-for-aid button on the trains.

In an emergency, passengers should dial 999; for non-emergencies requiring immediate police attention, passengers should dial 101.