More details have been released about the opening of Great Yarmouth's £121m third river crossing to the public and road users.

The three-year construction of the town's Herring Bridge will officially end at its opening ceremony on Thursday, February 1.

The milestone celebrations will begin at 11am with MP Sir Brandon Lewis unveiling a commemorative plaque and Rev Canon Simon Ward, from Great Yarmouth Minster, blessing the mammoth structure.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Construction of the Herring Bridge began in January 2021. Picture - Denise BradleyConstruction of the Herring Bridge began in January 2021. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)A countdown from the control tower will then see the bridge leaves lowered and a procession of vehicles - including the Great Yarmouth 'Herring Express' road train, classic cars from East Coast Pirates, emergency services, local hauliers and contractors involved in the project’s delivery - will make the first trip across Herring Bridge.

The inaugural convey will also include Ginger e-scooters, motorbikes and members from local scooter and cycling clubs, as well as local running club and school pupils.

Guests of honour include a 105-year-old who attended the opening of Haven Bridge in 1930 and those who suggested the winning name back in March last year.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The opening of the Third River Crossing will see people travel over the bridge by car, bus, road train, e-scooter and by bike. Picture - Denise BradleyThe opening of the Third River Crossing will see people travel over the bridge by car, bus, road train, e-scooter and by bike. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)After the procession, mayor Penny Carpenter will cut the ribbons on each side of the bridge to welcome people onto the bridge for the first time.

The grand finale will see the bridge leaves raised once more for lifeboat crews and local vessels to pass through with the herring drifter Lydia Eva.

Motorists are advised that William Adams Way will be closed to through traffic between A47 Harfrey’s roundabout and Beccles Rd/Southtown Rd junction between 9am to 3pm while the event takes place.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The bridge leaves down last August. Picture - Oliv3r Drone PhotographyThe bridge leaves down last August. Picture - Oliv3r Drone Photography (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography)Anyone travelling to the area to watch the proceedings is advised to use public transport or travel on foot where possible.

Residents can apply for road train tickets by emailing ‘Herring Express’ to Gy3rc@norfolk.gov.uk stating their name and address, how many tickets they require, along with names of all passengers in their party and any special access requirements.

Tickets are limited to a maximum of six per family and one entry per household.

The competition will close at midnight on Sunday, January 28, and successful entrants will be contacted the following day.