News Beat
TikTok trainspotter Francis Bourgeois shares Metro video
Francis Bourgeois, the rail enthusiast who helped bring trainspotting into the mainstream, filmed himself at Willesden Junction in London, capturing the delivery of the new train as it passed through the station.
The video, which features the new Class 555 Stadler Metro train, has racked up nearly 500,000 views on TikTok and more than one million on Instagram.
Mr Bourgeois said: “There are the new Tyne and Wear Metro units, 555042 and 555044.
“I do not think I’ve had such an adrenaline rush past midnight.”
The video was filmed in the early hours of the morning as Mr Bourgeois documented the arrival of the Metro train after it had been hauled through the Channel Tunnel.
Certainly worth staying up late at Willesden Juncton for this! (Note: the class 20s were hauling 900+ tonnes)
Nexus, the operator of the Tyne and Wear Metro, welcomed the social media spotlight.
Nexus said it was fantastic to see one of its new trains appearing on social media with Francis Bourgeois.
Mr Bourgeois, whose real name is Luke Nicholson, has become a social media star through his joyful and enthusiastic trainspotting videos.
Since posting his first TikTok clip in February 2021, he has gained more than 3.3 million followers on the platform and a further 2.5 million on Instagram.
His videos, often filled with excitement and nostalgia, have helped introduce a new audience to the world of trainspotting and railway enthusiasm.
