Man taken to hospital after attack on Metro

A man was taken to hospital for treatment for a head injury after he was attacked while travelling on the Metro.

Emergency services were called to East Boldon station on Wednesday, January 27, shortly before 8pm, with the train halted as police and medics went to the aid of the 40-year-old.

The North East Ambulance Service sent a doublecrewed ambulance to the scene and took him to South

Tyneside District Hospital for further treatment for his injury.

The British Transport Police (BTP) are investigating the assault, which led to a 45-minute gap in the service between the station and South Hylton.

A spokesperson for Nexus, which runs the Metro service, said: “A Metro train was held at East Boldon just before 8pmon Wednesday night after a man was assaulted inside the carriage.

“Police were called to deal with the incident and the train was able to depart 15 minutes later.

“Behaviour of this nature is totally unacceptable and we will be supporting the police with their investigation, including with any available CCTV of footage.

“During lockdown people should only be travelling for essential purposes and if you do need to make a journey then you must wear a face covering at all times unless exempt.

“Crime rates on Metro are low, but when offences do occur we do all that we can to ensure those responsible face prosecution.”

Anyone with information about the assault can text BTP via 61016 or people can fill in an online form by clicking here.

The Government says only essential travel is allowed.