The raising of the centrepiece of Sunderland’s New Wear Crossing was a stunning sight to witness today.

The 100m central pylon is bigger than Big Ben’s clock tower, weighs the equivalent of 125 double-decker buses and will be visible for miles.

It is a magnificent piece of engineering and, as I joined the crowds lining the banks of the Wear to watch the raising, I was fascinated and excited by the whole process.

Construction of the bridge is both on time and on budget, and it is expected to open in the spring of next year. Hopefully the new crossing will bring new investment to the city.