Traffic and Travel live updates: Metro disruption in North Tyneside; Major delays on A19 north

Metro statement on services

A Nexus spokesperson, said: "Metro services are likely to remain suspended between Shiremoor and Tynemouth for the rest of the day, Friday 31 May, and customers are advised to allow extra journey time if travelling through the affected area. The line is closed due to a large diseased tree, located in an adjacent garden at Monkseaton, which is in a poor condition and needs to be removed by specialists. "The top part of the tree fell on the Metro line yesterday and the resulting damage brought down 500 metres of overhead lines.

We are working to remove the damaged tree as soon as we can, but this is a complex task and is likely to take some time to fully resolve. "Customers need to plan ahead and allow more journey time, especially if heading to the England Women's football match at St James' Park tonight, which kicks off at 8pm, and the Girls Aloud concert at Newcastle Arena. A frequent replacement bus service, number 900, is running in the affected area, calling at or near all of the Metro stations on the route.

"Specialised cutting equipment is being used. Once the damaged tree has been cut down we will be able to proceed with the repairs on the overhead lines. "We're sorry for the inconvenience this issue is causing our customers.

All the latest is on Metro's X page (formerly Twitter) on @My_Metro."