PEOPLE have been reminded they have the chance to be part of the royal opening of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge in early May.

The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will open the award-winning bridge on Tuesday, May 7.

Gateshead Borough Council would like to hear from people, families and community groups who have something special to celebrate in the golden jubilee year.

Residents should write, in no more than 100 words, why they should be invited.

Applications should be sent to Gateshead Millennium Bridge Royal Opening, Gateshead Borough Council, Civic Centre, Regent Street, Gateshead, NE8 1HH.

Applications must be received no later than Friday, April 19.