The Menai Suspension Bridge, designed by Thomas Telford to link mainland Wales with Anglesey and create a trade route through to Ireland, marked its bicentenary on August 8, with tributes highlighting its continued role in economic growth and connectivity. Helen Hardy, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK (CILT(UK)), spoke at the event, calling the bridge “far more than an engineering triumph.” "It was an honour for CILT(UK) to take part in today's celebrations during such a significant year for both the bridge and our Institute." Mr Whittaker said: "The Menai Suspension Bridge has stood for 200 years because of remarkable engineering, but its real legacy is the connection it continues to provide for communities and businesses every day. The event also honoured the birthday of engineer Thomas Telford, whose vision for the Menai Suspension Bridge created a new gateway for trade and mobility.