A PROCESSION of vintage vehicles travelled across the Severn Bridge yesterday (8th September) to celebrate the 50th anniversary since the landmark was opened.

The day began with a vintage car rally led by two vintage buses, both of which were part of the original fleet of buses used on the route across the bridge. The buses carried Year 3 students and teachers from Offas Mead Academy in Sedbury, who embraced the opportunity to learn about the bridge and all the vintage cars that took part.

With the barrier raised on the bridge, the buses and over 40 vintage cars drove across waving anniversary flags to celebrate 50 years it’s opening. The procession then drove through Chepstow and on to the Beachley peninsula before assembling in the car park of the Old Ferry Inn.

In the afternoon the Institure of Civil Engineers (ICE) hosted a special event which brought together engineers from throughout the history of the bridge, including even before construction. It was an opportunity for past colleagues to meet and share stories from their time on the bridge and talk about why it is such an important part of their lives.

ICE President, Sir John Armitt, said: “It was a pleasure to see the anniversary of this iconic structure celebrated by members of the public many of whom were there when it opened 50 years ago, some of the engineers who have helped to construct or maintain the bridge over the decades, and importantly by the younger generation.”