Newport's landmark Transporter Bridge celebrates the centenary of its opening this year. Claire Burke reports on the celebrations

A WEEKEND-long 100th birthday party proposed for Newport's Transporter Bridge could attract 10,000 people, its organisers say.

Proposals for the Crow Point Festival, named after a point of land on the eastern shore of the River Usk and which would be held in September to mark the opening of the bridge in 1906, were being discussed by Newport city council today.

If they are given the go-ahead, preparations will begin for the event which will be held in Coronation Park, on the eastern side of the river.

The event is expected to cost about £150,000, and the city council is being asked for a contribution of £50,000.

One of the main organisers of the successful Maindee Festival, John Hallam, has developed the proposal. He said: "There are many people who know and love the Transporter Bridge.

"We want an event which will be attractive to people from Newport as well as visitors from outside."

A non-profit making business, Newport Community Interest Company, would be set up to organise the event. Members of the company would include Mr Hallam and MP for Newport East Jess Morden.

The bridge was officially opened on September 12, 1906. The plans propose the festival is held over the weekend of September 15 to 17.

On the Friday night a birthday party for the bridge would be held, with fireworks and live music.

Saturday would be a family day, with a funfair, horticultural show, world music and trade stalls.

Sunday will be aimed at younger people, with DJs playing music and a sponsored bike ride. Mr Hallam said: "We want a positive event for young people.

"Our aim is for the bridge to become fashionable and cool so it can be enjoyed by the young people of Newport.

"We want to make sure the bridge survives another 100 years."

He added: "Newport is short of outdoor events compared with other cities of its size."

A number of other events organised by different groups are also being planned throughout the year to celebrate the bridge's centenary.

They include using the bridge as the main theme for this year's Maindee Festival in July, a celebration at the site with local faiths in April and a concert in Newport to mark the anniversary with local choirs and groups in November.