Finely crafted, comfortable, robust and contemporary, this Limited Edition Tube Trainer is made by sweat shop free, European labour. Upper: Restored London Underground seat covers. Trim: 100% recycled or repurposed leather. Sole: 33% recycled tyre rubber. All 100% salvaged UK waste. Remade in Portugal. Retroflective safety strip on heel.

THE FABRIC

This design, manufactured by John Holdsworth and Co Limited, comprises an overlapping diamond pattern in dark blue and white with a maroon background. It was used during the mid-1990s on the Metropolitan line refurbishment of their 1960/1962 surface stock. Rolling stock refurbishment was carried out throughout the 1990s. On the Metropolitan line, removable seat covers were introduced to reduce disruption when seats are soiled or damaged. The refurbishment was also intended to create a better and brighter travelling environment for passengers. Lighting was improved and trains made 'see through' by being given windows at the end.

THE LINE

The first section of the Metropolitan Railway opened in 1863 between Paddington and Farringdon. By 1876, this line had reached Mansion House. The westerly section from Paddington to South Kensington was completed in stages by 1868. A northwestern extension out of London through St John's Wood to Harrow and Aylesbury was completed by 1892. In 1904, the Harrow to Uxbridge line opened. In 1905, electric trains replaced steam on the Baker Street to Uxbridge section. In 1933, the Metropolitan Railway was taken over by the London Passenger Transport Board (L.P.T.B).