Gateshead Millennium Bridge - on its 18th birthday

A few days ago on Facebook I spotted a post from Gateshead Council about some " behind the scenes "  tours of Gateshead Millennium Bridge which were taking place today.  There were only 4 time slots with 10 places on each tour.  I was fortunate to get a place on the 2pm tour this afternoon.

The reason for these special tours was that the bridge is 18 years old today.  On the tour we were shown the controls which they use to tilt the bridge open and then we went below to see the hydraulic rams. The bridge opens every day at 12 noon during the summer months and when necessary for shipping. It takes as little as 5 minutes to rotate through the full 40° from closed to open, depending on wind speed. Its appearance during this manoeuvre has led to it being nicknamed the "Blinking Eye Bridge". At night its lit up and tonight the lights were going to be disco themed to celebrate its special birthday.

I used my phone to take some photos when I was on the tour and will add them as Extras.

I have also added a few of the Elmer Elephants which I found around town. 

Musical link HAPPY BIRTHDAY by The New Kids On The Block

The tour lasted around 30 mins and afterwards I got the shuttle bus up into the centre of Newcastle and did some shopping. 

Steps today - 9,525