‘It’s astonishing how well it has lasted’: Anglesey marks 200th anniversary of beloved bridge

Despite repair problems, its admirers say Thomas Telford's Menai Bridge is good for another two centuries

When Ian Evans's grandfather opened a hardware shop on Anglesey in the 1930s, the Menai Bridge was instrumental in ensuring its success.

The wrought-iron chains from the early 19th century had just been replaced with tensile steel, making the suspension bridge stronger and wider. This allowed it to carry heavier freight and the Evans family was able to order bottled gas from the newly established Calor Gas company, bringing widespread energy access to rural Anglesey (Ynys Mon).