CAMPAIGNERS are appealing for support in their bid to light up a historic structure at night in time for special anniversary.

Yarm Viaduct, which carries the railway line between Middlesbrough and Northallerton, is marking 170 years since construction began.

Campaigners are hoping to mark the occasion by facilitating the instillation of lights so the Grade II-listed structure can be viewed and admired after dark.

Tom Reay, a spokesperson for the campaigners, said the historic structure deserves to follow a number of bridges in the region, such as Stockton’s Infinity Bridge and Newcastle’s Millennium Bridge in being lit up at night.

He was also confident there was enough support from residents to provide the required financial backing.

The pledge comes after Network Rail, who are responsible for the viaduct, said their funds must prioritise “keeping the railway running reliably and safely”, but they would be happy to discuss the project with campaigners if they were able to raise the necessary funds.

Construction on the 43-arch viaduct began in 1848 and lasted for four years.

The 43 arches span 760 yards and include seven-and-a-half million bricks.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We would be happy to consider an approach from the community group to discuss the feasibility of lighting the viaduct if they are able to raise the funds.”