THE Queen is coming to Halton to officially open the Mersey Gateway bridge.

Her majesty will be accompanied by the Duchess of Sussex on Thursday, June 14.

A plaque will be unveiled at Catalyst Science Discovery Centre on Mersey Road.

Halton Council leader Cllr Rob Polhill said: "“In October, we opened the Mersey Gateway to vehicles and celebrated with a spectacular firework display.

"At that time I did say that there would be a more formal official opening event to follow, and I am thrilled to confirm this will take place on the morning of 14 June in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen and the Duchess of Sussex.

"It will be an absolute honour for us to welcome their Royal Highnesses to Halton to celebrate our magnificent bridge.

"As part of this historic occasion our royal guests will enjoy a performance by young people from schools across the borough that tells the story of Halton’s river crossings over the ages – from the first ferry crossings to the modern day.

"The Mersey Gateway is already bringing positive benefits to Halton and those who use the crossing.

" It has also been recognised for its majestic design and great feat of engineering, but to have Her Majesty officially open the bridge is the absolute pinnacle of a 20-year journey of challenge and triumph.”