A robot dog, one of the most advanced technological quadrupeds in development, has surprised passengers on the Tyne and Wear Metro.

Bernard, whose bark is worse than his megabyte, joined the University of Sunderland in 2021 to promote technology at open days and outreach and recruitment events.

He showcases what technology can do and how it can be used in an applied way to solve tasks and on Tuesday he travelled into Newcastle to deliver one of his popular research talks.

The computerised canine boarded a Metro train at University station in Sunderland, near the City Campus, alongside his proud owner Professor John Murray, Academic Dean of the Faculty of Technology.

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The Northern Echo: Bernard on the Metro platform Bernard on the Metro platform (Image: Contributor)

He said: “I think the passengers were surprised to see a robot dog on the Metro and many were keen to have their photo taken with him.

“During the journey there were many questions about what he’s for and what he can do.

“Bernard certainly agrees with their colour scheme. Normally we take him to events in the car, so it was good to get him out and about to see how we can take him around the city and meet new people.”

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The Northern Echo: Professor Murray with Bernard Professor Murray with Bernard (Image: Contributor)

Prof Murray said Metro staff were all very excited to meet him and get to know more about him, adding: “He certainly caused a buzz and enjoyed the attention.”

Customer Services Director at Nexus, Huw Lewis, said Bernard is an amazing piece of technology which showcases what can be achieved with modern day robotics.

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He said: “Bernard certainly turned a few heads when our customers spotted him heading down into the station and then along the platform to wait for a train.

“They couldn’t wait to take a few selfies, and they were really in awe of what they were seeing.

“There was a mixture of delight and surprise. He is welcome on Metro any time because he made a lot of people’s day, whether young or old.”

Mr Lewis added: “The visit showed just how far robot technology has advanced. Bernard even made our trains show their age, and his yellow colour scheme was a nice nod to the modern new fleet of Stadler trains we are bringing into service later this year.”

The Northern Echo: Bernard has the same colour scheme as the public transport system Bernard has the same colour scheme as the public transport system (Image: Contributor)