August 2020 marks the fortieth anniversary of the opening of the first section of the Tyne & Wear Metro between Haymarket and Tynemouth. It is an exciting time for the system, with a new fleet of trains about to be ordered, and proposed extensions to the network.This book explores the decline of the BR suburban lines that were replaced, the phased opening of the new system from 1980 and subsequent extensions, as well as those being considered in the future. It looks at the successful integration of the Metro with bus and ferry services, and the inclusivity of the railway’s design, allowing disabled people unprecedented access to public transport. It also illustrates Metro’s unique combination of brand new tunnels, spectacular viaducts and underground stations; with the magnificent Victorian infrastructure of the former North Eastern Railway and Blyth & Tyne Railway.