there once was a bridge, quite impressive looking... but a couple kids walked into the tube, and the roof caught on fire from their torch. That's why kids need parents to keep an eye on them

The Britannia Bridge connects Anglesey to the Welsh mainland. The original bridge, designed by Robert Stephenson, opened on 5 March 1850 to carry trains running to Holyhead Station. The entrance to the original bridge was adorned by four large limestone lions, two at each end, sculpted by John Thomas. The lions remain in place today, but are sadly hidden by the new bridge and are only visible from the train.

On 23 May 1970, children playing inside the train tunnel dropped a burning torch which ignited the wooden roof of the tunnel. The fire spread along the bridge and severely damaged the metal structure, leading to the bridge requiring rebuilding. The current bridge opened to trains in 1972, with the road carrying the A55 running above the trains tracks opening in 1980.

oday, the lions that once had pride of place at the entrance to the tubular bridge are still in place but below the the road surface so not seen (see photos above).

http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/b/britannia_bridge/
http://sandgrownlass.co.uk/old-postcards/tag/britannia-bridge/
http://www.photographers-resource.co.uk/a_heritage/Bridges/LG/britannia_bridge.htm