See fascinating photos from the 1934 visit where the Duke of York opened the Tees Newport Bridge in Teesside.
King Charles often visited Teesside as Prince of Wales. Big crowds greeted him because people were always eager.
The Duke and Duchess of York visited Teesside back in 1934. They opened the Tees Newport Bridge, and it was a special event.
The North Eastern Daily Gazette reported on February 28, 1934, that the bridge was a “magnificent spectacle of colour” awaiting the “Royal hand.” Dr. Tosh Warwick wrote a book about the bridge, noting the royals stayed at Wynyard Hall in the 30s, according to his book.
Snowy weather impacted royal visit plans, leading them to cancel kids lining the streets. Taking 7,000 kids was risky.
Dr. Warwick stated some kids still saw them; they skipped school to line the route according to stories and news reports.
Important people gathered near the bridge in Middlesbrough. The Durham Light Infantry lined the bridge’s entrance while the crowd cheered loudly.
The Duke of York later became King George VI. He declared the Tees Newport Bridge open, recognizing that it was unique and large.
He hoped the bridge would succeed and wished it would help Teesside communities. He wanted it to benefit the whole country.
The royals then went to Middlesbrough Town Hall. Thousands watched them closely as the Town Hall was decorated cheerfully and important people celebrated there.
“Retiring rooms” were made for the royals, getting new paint and wallpaper. They even installed a gold colored toilet seat.