As York's Millennium Bridge across the River Ouse takes a visible shape, we can now begin to realise just what this celebration structure will mean to the city.

Only now can residents appreciate the vision of the bridge's architects and designers when they put an idea on to the drawing board and converted that into concrete and steel.

It will be a sight to see when the main bridge structure is floated into position. That moment will also mark the final stages in a pioneering engineering operation that has attracted interest from experts around the world.

And when the bridge opens in a few weeks time, it will add a new dimension to the city. It will open up new views of the river and provide a practical, attractive and convenient crossing for cyclists and pedestrians.

More than that, though, the bridge will remain a lasting memorial to York's first steps into a new age.