ONE of the oldest swingers in town and the latest addition to a river skyline will move in harmony for the first time next week.

Newcastle's Swing Bridge and Gateshead's Millennium Bridge will open and tilt together to boost Tyneside's bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2008.

The event will take place at 3pm on Monday as a symbol of the partnership between Newcastle and Gateshead in their joint bid for the status.

Hours later, the High Level Bridge will become the latest landmark over the river to be lit up at night.

Spotlights will be switched on by the chairman of the Railway Heritage Trust, Sir William McAlpine, at 8pm.

More than 300 white lights have been used inside the bridge arches and on the brick pillars to give the bridge a distinct glowing silhouette against the night sky.

Operating on a sensor, the lights will automatically switch on at dusk and switch off at dawn.

The High Level joins the Millennium and Tyne bridges as the third over the river to benefit from creative lighting schemes.

Councillor Tony Flynn, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: "The High Level Bridge has its own distinctive style and architecture, which were simply disappearing under the cover of darkness. The clever use of lighting really picks out the intricate detail of the bridge."

More events are being held in Gateshead and Newcastle over the weekend, including presentations and tours around the Millennium Bridge and tours of the Swing Bridge's hydraulic workings.

All of the tours and visits are free, but some need to be pre-booked to avoid disappointment.

For further details, or to book places, contact Gateshead Borough Council on 0191-477 5380, or visit www.gateshead.gov.uk or www.heritageopendays.org