IF your journey involves the Runcorn and Widnes bridge this weekend, don't forget you'll have to re-think your usual route. 

Because the new Mersey Gateway bridge opens just after midnight tonight. 

And at the same time the old Silver Jubilee bridge will close. 

The new bridge will be lit up with a light show and fireworks display for residents just hours before it opens to traffic this evening, Friday, from 8.30pm. 

Spectators can watch from West Bank in Widnes and Mersey Road in Runcorn.

The new bridge will have a 60mph speed limit and no toll booths.

Instead cameras and sensors will read vehicle number plates.

Eligible Halton residents can cross free once they pay a £10 annual registration fee.

But everyone else must pay £2 for each crossing.

Anyone, wherever they live, can also register for a pre-pay account or monthly pass which both give discounts on the full unregistered toll fee.

To register visit merseyflow.co.uk, call 01928 878878 or visit the walk in centre at Howard Court, Manor Park, Runcorn.

Once the bridge opens, tolls will be enforced immediately. Dedicated cameras and sensors will read vehicle number plates and special merseyflow stickers to charge drivers.

Anyone who doesn’t pay by 11:59pm the day after they cross will receive a penalty charge notice.

Drivers are being urged to cross the bridge with caution the first time they use it to give them time to familiarise themselves with the new roads. 

You can see our live video from the bridge here. 

Unsure about how the tolls work? Check our guide here.