The last remaining old Metro trains completed their final services at the end of last month.

The Tyne and Wear Metro train, carriage 4020, on which Queen Elizabeth was travelling when the system was opened, has been donated to the North East Land Sea and Air Museum (NELSAM).

Additionally, to mark the Metro’s 40th anniversary, King Charles also travelled on the same carriage in 2021.

This isn’t the first original train to be donated, with carriage 4001 donated to the Stephenson Steam Railway last year.

“We’re delighted to have donated this old Metro train to the North East Land Sea and Air Museum. 

“It was used for the Queen’s visit in 1981, a huge moment in Metro’s history, when she travelled on board it and then opened the system at a ceremony at Gateshead Interchange. 

“That very same carriage was also used during another Royal visit in 2021, when Prince Charles travelled on board from Central to Haymarket to mark our 40th anniversary year. 

“We’re over the moon that a museum has been able to take this train and put it on display for the public. It is part of the region’s proud railway heritage. We have achieved our commitment to keep two original trains for heritage purposes, meaning they can still be seen by the public for generations to come.”

Cathy Massarella, Managing Director of Nexus