More than 226,000 people have entered their name into a special ballot giving 50,000 lucky people the chance to walk across the Queensferry Crossing, it has emerged.
Organisers have confirmed that the once in a lifetime opportunity – organised as part of forthcoming celebrations to mark the new bridge’s official opening – has attracted 82,198 separate ballot entries, comprising a total of more than 226,000 individuals.
Most of the entrants, around 97%, have Scottish addresses, with 51% of those hailing from postcodes directly neighbouring the bridge.
However, some 5,180 individuals who have entered have postcodes from elsewhere in the UK while 437 are from the rest of the world, while people from the United States, India and a single entrant from Slovakia are also said to vying for their chance to cross.
The Queensferry Crossing Experience will take place on the weekend of September 2 and 3, and those who have been fortunate enough to be chosen should know who they are by July 13.
A random selection process to choose the lucky 50,000 has now begun, with entrants chosen by the computer being asked to confirm their attendance on the day within 48 hours.
Economy secretary Keith Brown thanked everyone who had put their names forward.
“We’re delighted with the response to the Queensferry Crossing Experience, it really proves just how strongly the new bridge has captured the imagination of the public in the past decade of consultation, development and construction,” he said.
“The process to randomly select the lucky 50,000 is now underway and we would ask everyone who has entered to keep their eyes on their email inboxes as, if selected, you only have 48 hours to confirm your attendance.
“It is also pleasing to see the large amount of ballot entries hailing from local postcodes which should ensure local communities are well represented over the weekend.
“To have a walking event of this scale is fantastic for all those successful in the ballot, providing a close up view of the impressive new crossing and a unique way for people to be physically active.”
Meanwhile, preparations for a further official opening event are being made and will be announced when finalised.
