A CAVALCADE of classic cars, lorries, tractors and bikes crossed the Cleddau Bridge on Sunday (April 7) to celebrate the end of bridge tolls.

The tolls were abolished on Thursday, March 28, after 44 years.

Hundreds of cars, dozens of bikers from the Three Amigos and even a tractor joined in the celebrations on the bridge, while Angle lifeboat, Dale Sailing a lot of yachts passed by below the bridge.

The event was organised by classic car enthusiast, Malcolm Powell.

“It was a wonderful day,” he said. “It went without a hitch.

“The atmosphere was amazing, I’m really pleased with how it went.

“We had the MG club there from Bridgend and people from Carmarthen came and everyone was saying it was a great day.

“I would like to say thank you to Peter Baker and Ted Owen who seemed to really enjoy himself.

“And to all the mayors from Pembroke and Pembroke Dock and Councillor Aden Brinn – they all added extra colour to the day.”

Malcolm also organised a bucket collection for the Wales Air Ambulance, Paul Sartori and Angle Lifeboat crew fund, raising £500 which will be shared between the charities.

Malcolm said he hoped the removal of the tolls would encourage people to explore the other side of the bridge.

“The bridge being toll-free will open things up,” Malcolm added. “I know 75 pence isn’t a lot but even 50 pence is a lot if you haven’t got it.

“People from Neyland and Milford can visit Pembroke and Pembroke Dock and we can visit Neyland and Milford.

“We’ve got some beautiful places both sides of the bridge but, even though they are only two miles away, people can be put off by the £1.50 charge.

“Hopefully both Pembroke and Pembroke Dock and Neyland and Milford Haven will prosper from this.

“I think it will help the business side of things as well, I’ve got friends in haulage, they cross the bridge ten times a day, five days a week at £1.50 each time.

“We are not north and south we are one.”

Old bridge tickets can also be handed into Malcolm. He has arranged to exchange odd tickets for cash with Pembrokeshire County Council. All money made from this will also be split between the three charities. If you have any you would like to give contact Malcolm on 07879 664835.