The Tyne's river crossings lie at the heart of the region, not only as pivotal parts of the road, rail, cycle and footpath networks which link our communities, but also as potent symbols of the North East, held in great affection by its inhabitants. "Crossing the Tyne" explores the history of the bridges, tunnels, ferries and fords on the tidal reaches of the Tyne, from Ryton to the river mouth. The research spans almost 2000 years of human ingenuity, from the Roman Pons Aelius, to the hi-tech, cutting-edge Gateshead Millennium Bridge. It records some of the more daring methods of crossing the river: intrepid journeys by hot air balloon and airship. "Crossing the Tyne" also describes some of the innovative schemes which never got past the planning stage, like the mighty bridge, 210ft high, intended to link North and South Shields. Illustrated with contemporary colour photography by Graeme Peacock and archive material, "Crossing the Tyne" is a celebration one of the North's great rivers and the people who live beside it.