The bridges that cross the River Tyne linking Newcastle and Gateshead have helped define our region over time.
The words 'Tyne Bridge' immediately conjure up an image of the world-famous arched crossing that has bestrode the river since 1928. But there were previous 'Tyne Bridges', all sited just upriver at the same spot - where the Swing Bridge sits today.
As anyone with an interest in the history of Tyneside will tell you, there was the original Roman crossing called Pons Aelius, built by the Emperor Hadrian around AD 120. Then, after a gap of more than 1,000 years, came the 13th century medieval version.
