PASSENGERS will be sent to work in a chirpy mood this week after being serenaded with bird song as they wait for their train.

Passengers on the Tyne and Wear Metro will be stopped in their tracks from today by the unexpected strains of some of the region's best-loved birds - played over platform speakers to mark Wake Up To Birds Week.

Early morning commuters more used to urban sounds will be able to enjoy the evocative calls of curlew, blackbird and kittiwake thanks to the RSPB, which has teamed up with the Metro operator to bring the sound of the countryside to the heart of the city.

The wildlife wake-up call will be played from 7am to 9am, and it is hoped the bird song medley will put passengers in a good mood as they head into work.

RSPB North of England regional director Andy Bunten said: "We wanted to do something unique in the North-East and, as listening to bird song is an inspiring and up-lifting experience for many people, we thought it might be fun to play bird song as people are heading in to work during the week.

"I hope passengers will enjoy the sounds of these three local birds and approve of the choice."

Nexus director general Mike Parker said: "We hope our passengers will enjoy these inspirational bird songs and that they will help brighten up their journey."