The official opening of the Queensferry Crossing (aka new road bridge) was this weekend. Organised by our friends at Ed Marathon, with Carnethies Bob Waterhouse, Richard Lathe, and Nick MacDonald (maybe others?) leaning their shoulders to the task. Remark: two days each 10-12 hours on your feet, takes its toll. Joints squeaking.
50,000 visitors from near and far safely made it across (brilliant organization by Steve@gsi). How near and far we do not know, but among the kilts and and the throng there was at least guy from Austria, Ozzies, and a girl with a big flag – Slovakia. A survey would be interesting.
Carnethies and celebrities spotted among the throngs of ‘crossers’ include Brian Howie, Nicola Sturgeon, Gordon Brown, and Bill Gauld. The weather was good (suntan cream all) until late Sunday when the rains broke as the final ‘Ambassadors’ (read ‘Marshals’, ed.) were tidying up.
At least three runners went for a speedy crossing, it would be good to know who they are, because one of them will now hold a longstanding world record for the Crossing Crossing (ha!) – the new bridge won’t be open again to pedestrians.
Richard Lathe
PS. So many views on this bridge – it’s only got two lanes – there is no track for walkers, runners, cyclists – etc. – but one really must admit that it’s a stunningly beautiful creation. From the top of the Pentlands or Dumyat on the other side, the new bridge looks like Three Angels guarding the Forth.