Firefighters are set to carry out the first official training exercise on a recently-donated Metro train.

The exercise will take place on the retired Metro train, donated to Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) back in September.

The 40-tonne, 29-metre-long carriage, named No. 4019, was gifted in September to allow emergency services to carry out realistic, rail-specific training.

Thursday’s (November 11) exercise will simulate a collision between the Metro train and a road vehicle that has crossed onto the tracks.

Firefighters will work to rescue a trapped Metro driver from the smoke-filled carriage, with a damaged car placed on the 38-metre stretch of purpose-built rail track to enhance the realism of the exercise.

The permanent training site has been equipped to closely re

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