It should be remembered that whilst a large number of the Metrocars have headed away for scrapping there is (so far) one which has entered preservation. 4001 – one of the prototypes – was donated to the Stephenson Steam Railway, which just happens to be on the site of the original Metro test track, and since arriving there on 11th September 2025 work has been underway to improve its appearance.
Thursday 9th April 2026 saw a running day take place at the railway which saw class 08 08 915 hauling a carriage along the running line. As well as that excitement, 4001 was also open for visitors allowing them to take a look at the units interior.
Since we last featured the train on these pages it has been moved outside and the exterior has been cleaned with all the graffiti which it had received when in store at Gosforth Depot removed. Work has also started on the interior where it is planned to restore it to its original condition.
4001 received a special livery for the 40th anniversary of the network, which featured different iconic liveries carried over the years. This end shows the original yellow and then later blue liveries.
The cab at the “B” end of 4001.
The interior of the unit.
A look at the other end of the train which features the last Metrocar livery.
4001 is in the background as we see 08 915 at Middle Engine Lane Halt. (Photograph by Trevor Hall, 9th April 2026)