Guinness World Records has confirmed that The Big Bridge Build – a bridge spanning almost 100 feet across Belfast’s Clarendon Dock – is the world’s largest Meccano structure.

The event was attended by hundreds and was broadcast throughout the day on Saturday on BBC, with additional live coverage from Sky News and ITV News.

The Big Bridge Build, a year-long project, is the brainchild of the university’s School of Planning, Architecture and Civil Engineering. Academics and students created the 96ft long bridge, with the help of local schoolchildren, as part of the university’s outreach programme to encourage more children to think about STEM careers.

The bridge was officially declared open by Meccano’s Meccanoid Robot. The public had the opportunity to speak to students and academics, as well as the event sponsors who were on hand to discuss the bridge build and civil engineering in general. Youngsters were also able to create their own Meccano structures in a gazebo sponsored by Smyths Toys Superstores.

Ben Varadi, executive vice president and CCO, Spin Master, commented: “We are truly in awe of this remarkable achievement. Spin Master is incredibly proud that this timeless and iconic toy, invented over a 100 years ago, continues to inspire the world’s future architects and engineers.”