That's an official timing from Guardian reporters, who have been watching the unfolding events with interest - and who were there to see the bollards moved and the tapes lifted at 8.45pm on Monday night.

There was no fanfare, no dancing across the bridge by joyous dignitaries, just a quiet moment as engineers from Kvaerner Cleveland Bridge moved away the orange bollards at each end of the bridge.

Kvaerner's mechanical chief engineer, Alan Robotham, was the first man to drive across into the Bull Ring - but he was instantly followed by around 20 cars and two lorries, which betrays the 28 weeks of anxious waiting during which Northwich has held its breath.

As some cars crossed, with windows wound down, we heard shouts such as "well done!", "thank-you!" and even "it's about time!"

Cheshire County Clr Ron Carey was there to watch, and he kicked things off by removing the 'Road Closed' signs at the Castle Street end.

"After lifting that sign, I'm delighted," said Clr Carey.

"The bridge, which is unique to this town and to its tourism, has been there for 100 years, and it's going to be there for another 100 - even if I have to look down on it by then!"

Other visitors were equally caught up in the moment.

Thomas Southern of the Ichthus Christian Bookshop on Station Road said: "I feel almost lucky to be here right now, for the opening.

"I want to go home and ring my friends to tell them."

And Mr Southern voiced the relief of many town centre traders.

"It's terrific that it's open now, just before the Christmas season gets under way. I think that will benefit all of us."

Bus driver Adam Fox, of Arriva North West, was also glad to see normal service resumed.

"Obviously it makes my job easier," said Mr Fox.

"My main runs are to Barnton, Weaverham, and Runcorn. So for six months I've been stuck in a rut in the town centre, getting caught at traffic lights and in long queues.

"Hopefully, this will see the end of that."

An official opening, which will also feature the laying of a commemorative plaque, is scheduled for the afternoon of Tuesday October 27.

Town Mayor Dorie Willington and Vale Royal Mayor Keith Musgrave will oversee the event.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.