THE Newport Transporter bridge is a landmark. One of only a handful of operational transporter bridges left world-wide, it has been a central part of our skyline and identity of the city for over a century. It puts us on the world map attracting international visitors, publicity and profile.

It is such an icon of Newport, it was no surprise it received a huge number of votes to appear on a Newport edition of Monopoly that will be out later this year.

The Bridge is visible from so much of Newport, though I’m sure one of the reasons it is a prominent part of our city’s identity is the memory of the excitement of crossing it growing up.

Almost everyone who grew up here will have a memory of the bridge. I was reminded of some of mine in April, when I joined people crossing it for the Kidney Wales Foundation as part of their charity walk. I really enjoyed the walk over the top, something I’d last done a generation ago when my children were young.

As a child at school in Pill, we used to have to cross it to go and play sport in Coronation Park on the other side of the river. We would stand on one leg and try and retain our balance when the gondola bumped in reaching each side.

The Transporter Bridge is open Wednesday to Sunday from April to near the end of September and the volunteer-run Visitor Centre is open every day.

You can find out more about visits and crossing from Newport City Council, or the Friends of the Newport Transporter Bridge - http://www.fontb.org.uk/

Throughout May, many groups like Age Cymru and Citizens Advice are highlighting ‘Scams Awareness Month’, a campaign to protect people from scams and rogue traders.

It’s appalling that criminals and dishonest traders try to rip people off like this, and those targeted by scams can lose money and feel frightened.

If you have been targeted by a scam, you can call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 www.actionfraud.police.uk to report it, or to Trading Standards in your local authority.

If cold calling is a problem, you can also register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). This is a free service that allows you to record your preference not to have any unsolicited sales or marketing calls. TPS can be contacted on 0845 070 0707.