Why are transport bosses from across the world heading to the Stadium of Light?

Rail chiefs from six different continents are attending the two-day event, which is being held at the home of Sunderland AFC.

Hosts Nexus will welcome representatives from cities including Hong Kong, London, Kuala Lumpur, Buenos Aires, New York, Paris and Melbourne.

The aim of the conference is to promote best practice in railway safety by sharing knowledge and expertise.

Director of Rail and Infrastructure at Nexus, Raymond Johnstone, said: "I’m proud that Nexus is able to host this international event and that we’ve been able to bring it to Sunderland.

"The Tyne and Wear Metro is part of a worldwide family of cities that have metro systems. It’s vital that we share knowledge and best practice, especially when it comes to safety, which is our top priority at all times."

Chair of the Sunderland Chamber of Commerce, Gary Hutchison, said: “Hosting such a prestigious event is a real coup for Sunderland.

"The versatility of the Stadium of Light as a venue, alongside the adjacent Hilton Garden Inn, means that major conferences and events can be comfortably accommodated right here on our own doorstep. We are welcoming metro officials from right across the world to the city, which can only help to showcase Sunderland as a great venue for international conferences.”