A trip down memory lane as the Tay Bridge turns 50

It was on August 18, 1966, that the Queen Mother officially opened the bridge and to commemorate the occasion a day of celebrations is planned for Dundee, Tayport and Newport.

It will be held on Sunday, August 21, and will include a vintage car procession across the bridge, boat trips and live music.

During the event there’ll also be a workers’ commemoration ceremony at the Memorial Stone in the Tay Road Bridge Fife Car Park. The commemoration will pay respect to those who lost their lives building the bridge as well as those who have worked and continue to work on the bridge.

In addition, the event’s organisers have been putting together an exhibition about the bridge and are appealing for stories and memorabilia from the public.

They are looking for artefacts from 1966, such as publications and souvenir gifts that were handed out to mark the opening.

Bridge manager Alan Hutchison said: “We take the bridge for granted today, but it has undoubtedly been of huge benefit to the region, both socially and economically.

“This event will provide an opportunity to look back at the life of the bridge and we need everyone’s help in making its 50th anniversary memorable.”

People who want to donate items or share their stories can contact 01382 433044 or email [email protected]

Meanwhile Dundonians enjoyed a sneak peek at some of the vintage vehicles – loaned by Dundee Museum of Transport – when Lord Provost Bob Duncan of Dundee, Provost Jim Leishman of Fife and Depute Provost Alex King of Angus met at Slessor Gardens to help promote the anniversary celebrations.