Birkenhead Tunnel's 75th birthday to be marked with public walk-through

Apr 15 2009 by Michelle Fiddler, Heswall News

THE 75th anniversary of the opening of the Queensway Tunnel is to be marked with a mass public walk-through in the summer.

It is only the fifth time the Birkenhead tunnel has been opened to pedestrians.

Around 20,000 people are expected to attend the event on July 19, which organisers said would be the last chance to walk through the tunnel for years to come.

A full day of activities is planned around the walk, called Under and Over the Mersey and hosted by Bootle-born Keith Chegwin.

Organisers Merseytravel are hoping to transport people back in time with a 1930s carnival atmosphere to mark the anniversary of the tunnel’s opening by King George V in 1934.

There will be vintage cars, carnival rides, music and circus performances on the day, as well as a trip back over the river on a Mersey Ferry.

The event is expected to raise thousands of pounds for Claire House children’s hospice in Wirral, Merseytravel’s charity for 2009. However all those taking part can support their own charities or good causes.

The tunnel was opened to pedestrians last year, and Neil Scales, chief executive and director general of tunnel operators Merseytravel, said: “This is the legacy of a special event held last year to celebrate European Capital of Culture.

“We’re making it even better this year and we hope that thousands of people will come along, take part, enjoy themselves and help raise some money for some truly fantastic causes that are close to their hearts.

“This year we are planning something special to celebrate a milestone in the history of the tunnel – at its time, the largest underwater road tunnel in the world.

“Seventy-five years on it is still an amazing feat of engineering and we’ll be bringing some of that history back to life.”

“Everyone taking part will receive a medal to commemorate the day and celebrate their effort.

Councillor Mark Dowd, chairman of Merseytravel,added: “We want people to really enjoy the day and make it one to remember.

“The event will be something to tell your children and grandchildren about because it will not happen again for years.”

Single tickets for Under and Over the Mersey are £5, while family tickets (two adults and two children) are £15.

Walks are timed at 10.30am, 11.15am, 12 noon, 12.45pm or 1.30pm. Go to merseytravel.gov.uk to book online.