The dad of a teen who was violently attacked at a Metro station has today warned the network is becoming a "no go area" for law-abiding passengers.
Police are still hunting a gang of yobs who dragged the GCSE student off a train before beating him on the platform as he made his way home from celebrating his sixteenth birthday.
Officers are now trawling through CCTV in a bid to identify the attackers, who struck on the night of Saturday April 2.
Read more: Attack gang hunted after teen left with head injuries at Tynemouth Metro Station
The attack was just one of a string of incidents that have happened at, or close to, North Tyneside Metro stations in recent weeks.
And today as the hunt goes on for those responsible the dad of the Palmersville attack victim has told of the lasting impact the assault has had on his son, and why he won't be travelling by Metro again.
He said: "It's sad to say but the Metro is a no go area now. If that can happen to a fit 16-year-old it can happen to anybody.
"He's still got bruises round his body and he hasn't been sleeping very well. I just hope it doesn't affect him for his GCSEs."
The lad, who the Chronicle has agreed not to name, was returning home to Newcastle after visiting his girlfriend when he was attacked in what is thought to be a case of mistaken identity.
His parents say he was dragged off the train by a group of around 20 yobs, who then kicked, punched and head-butted him.
After the attack the victim was taken home by his girlfriend's dad. He was not seriously injured but suffered bruising to his face and body.
"Luckily it has just been bruising," his dad said.
The incident happened at around 11pm. the same time another 16-year-old was being attacked near Tynemouth Metro Station.
Police say they do not believe the two assaults are linked.
The dad added: "It's just lucky that both lads have survived. These people are absolute psychopaths. It's caused so much damage to these children and they will be laughing at it."
A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said officers investigating the Palmersville attack are in the process of reviewing CCTV.
She said: “Enquires remain ongoing and our officers are currently reviewing CCTV and speaking with witnesses to identify those responsible.”
Last week Metro's Operations Director, John Alexander, blasted the station thugs.
He said: "Nexus annually spends £1m on dedicated policing on Metro, we have increased staffing levels on the network, and we run regular joint patrols with the Northumbria Force in order to pinpoint trouble spots and deter anti-social behaviour and fare evasion.
“Crime rates remain low for a transport system of its size. Serious crime is rare, but when it does occur we work closely with the police to deal with it.
"Our customers have the right to travel safely and not have to contend with anti-social behaviour like this.
“Anyone who causes trouble on Metro faces prosecution, heavy fines, and a ban from the network."
Witnesses should call Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference NP-20220402-1351.
