Camera cover for all Metro trains

Cameras will be fitted onto the ceiling of all carriages

High-quality CCTV cameras are to be installed on every train on the Tyne and Wear Metro.

Operator Nexus is to fit the digital system throughout its 90-strong fleet, in a £500,000 scheme aimed at increasing passenger safety.

Each tiny camera can store hundreds of hours of footage which can be accessed using a laptop and used as evidence in the event of any prosecution.

Only one third of Metro trains currently have CCTV cameras on board.

Emma Holmes, Metro commercial director, said: "This means improved security for passengers and will make it easier to pin-point offenders should an incident occur on Metro.

"The quality of the footage from the new cameras is outstanding compared to the old analogue system.

"It will make it even harder for trouble-makers to avoid getting caught."