Emotional memories of the Queen visiting Cheshire

I vividly remember watching the Queen open Cheshire’s long-awaited Mersey Gateway bridge on June, 14, 2018.

It was one of many royal visits Her Majesty attended in the county throughout her 70-year reign.

Before I joined the Guardian team in Northwich, Knutsford, Winsford, and Middlewich, I used to cover Runcorn and Widnes.  

Campaigners had battled for more than 20 years to get a new bridge so everyone was bursting with pride.

To see the Her Majesty unveil a plaque to mark the official opening was an historic milestone.

PA (Image: PA)

You couldn’t help but feel emotional when you realised just how much this day meant.

A new crossing was desperately needed but it took nerves of steel to plod on and not give up as government ministers failed to be convinced.

However, despite countless setbacks, dogged persistence and determination eventually paid off.

More than a million journeys have now been recorded across the iconic £600 million bridge.

On the day of the royal visit, around 600 children were waving their flags on the riverbank beside the new crossing at Spike Island in Widnes.

Children waving flags greet the Queen as she arrives at Runcorn Station to open the Mersey Gateway bridge (Image: PA)

A great buzz of excitement filled the air as we all waited for our first glimpse of the Queen.

You could feel the energy as we heard someone say: ‘She’s coming’.

A huge roar erupted as everyone cheered and clapped when she stepped out of the black limousine.

Excited children cheering as the Queen arrives to open the Mersey Gateway (Image: PA)

Wearing a spring green coat and matching hat, she looked so happy as she waved to us.

It is her infectious smile that I remember most of all.

She was absorbed watching a children’s dance routine depicting the history of River Mersey crossings through the ages.

I have covered several other royal visits when the Queen came to Cheshire.

The Queen watched children performing at the opening of the Mersey Gateway (Image: PA)

On each occasion, she spoke to people she met with enthusiasm, asking questions and showing a great interest in what they were doing.

The Queen was dedicated and selfless throughout her 70-year reign and has left an extraordinary legacy.

I feel proud and privileged to have shared just a tiny glimpse of her unstinting service to the community.