100,000 people expected at 150th anniversary of the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

The Bristol landmark will host a fireworks display on Sunday, preceded by a minute's silence

Harry Davies
Sunday 07 December 2014 13:30 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

This month sees the 150th anniversary of Clifton Suspension Bridge, a testament to the genius of Isambard Kindom Brunel, whose plans were altered by William Henry Barlow and John Harkshaw. Paid for by the £1,000 will of William Vick, the price and practicality of it stands in stark contrast to the profligate Garden Bridge, set to be built across the Thames for a staggering £175 million offering little more than “a place to linger”, according to its designer.

More than 100,000 people are expected at a fireworks display at 7pm on Sunday. Following the death of Bristol mother Charlotte Bevan and her baby girl earlier this week, a one-minute silence will be held before the display.

In a statement, The Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust said it had "carefully reviewed" whether to continue to hold the event:

"Having thought very deeply about this, it is felt that the planned event should go ahead".

George Ferguson, the first elected Mayor of Bristol, tweeted this morning:

"As #Bristol celebrates #CliftonSuspensionBridge 150th anniversary @brunelsbridge we remember the tragedy of Charlotte Bevan and many others."

Anyone seeking confidential support on suicide should call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in