Princess Anne opens Clifton Suspension Bridge visitor centre

The princess met students from Merchant's Academy as well as trustees, staff and volunteers from the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust

The Princess Royal has opened a £1.9m visitor centre at Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.

The Grade 1 listed bridge, which spans the Avon Gorge, is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.

The purpose-built centre in Leigh Woods includes an exhibition, education space and shop.

Chris Booy, from the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust, said it will allow visitors to "explore the ornament of Bristol".

The new centre, part funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, includes an exhibition, education space and shop

The 704ft (214m) bridge, which links Leigh Woods to Clifton was designed by the engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel when he was 24.

Part funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the new facility includes film, hands-on exhibits and historical artefacts - some of which have been in storage since the Bridge House Visitor Centre closed eight years ago.

"This remarkable bridge is a powerful symbol for Bristol and has such an important place in the hearts of local people," said Mr Booy.

"The new centre provides an opportunity for visitors of all ages and backgrounds to discover the life and legacy of Isambard Kingdom Brunel."