Our royal correspondent for the day Barbara Jordan gives us her take on a memorable day for Widnes and Runcorn. 

WOW! What an incredible day.

From the moment I met people waiting patiently on Mersey Road to catch a glimpse of the Queen and Meghan first thing this morning - to the roars of delight from children as the royal car arrived it's been a rollercoaster of emotion.

There was such a buzz of excitement as everyone just couldn't wait to see the royal visitors.

You could really feel the energy in the air as little ones jiggled about chattering and waving their flags.

AS IT HAPPENED: The Queen and Meghan visit Runcorn and Widnes

Around 600 pupils from schools across Halton gathered at Spike Island to welcome Her Majesty and the Duchess of Sussex to open the Mersey Gateway.

It was lovely to talk to the two little schoolgirls, Savannah Cafferty, 11, and Alarni Wain, eight, who were chosen to present posies to the royal pair.

They could hardly sit still they were so excited.

Suddenly, the voice of an angel burst out through the loudspeakers. Beau Dermott, the 13-year-old Widnes schoolgirl, who wowed viewers on Britain's Got Talent, gave the most amazing performance.

It made the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end, it was so moving.

You couldn't help but feel emotional when you realise just how much today meant for Halton.

After more than 20 years painstakingly battling to get a new bridge, everyone was bursting with pride. To see the Queen unveil a plaque to mark the official opening was a historic milestone.

I vividly remember interviewing former council leader Tony McDermott amid the traffic - actually on the Silver Jubilee bridge as juggernauts thundered past.

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.

Interviewing various people who played a key role in that journey was an honour today - to share the celebration was a privilege.

I will never forget the moment the Queen and Meghan stepped out of the royal car amid cheers from hundreds of children.

I'm sure it is a momentous day these youngsters will talk about for generations to come.

PICTURES: Queen and Meghan Markle during royal visit to open Mersey Gateway bridge