MORE than 12,000 applications were submitted by hopeful members of the public for a tour of the iconic Forth Road Bridge on Doors Open Day. 

Transport Scotland’s operating company, BEAR Scotland, held a ballot for places on their popular minibus trips around the bridge deck and anchorage - which are set to take place on Saturday, September 28.

It closed on August 1 and 288 successful applicants have now been notified and allocated places.

Andy Thompson, from BEAR Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to welcome visitors back to the Forth Road Bridge on Doors Open Day for the third year running, and to be raising money for a great cause in Macmillan Cancer Support.

“Our guided minibus tours give the public a rare chance to visit parts of the bridge normally hidden from view, and to hear from experienced members of staff."

READ MORE: Dunfermline Press reporter scales iconic Forth Road Bridge

The tours will depart every 15 minutes on September 28 and will last for one hour, stopping at points of interest along the deck before visiting one of the anchorage chambers on the north side of the bridge, where the main cables are anchored into the rock.

Commentary will be provided by experienced members of staff from BEAR Scotland.

There is no charge for the tours, however, donations to the company's national charity partner, Macmillan Cancer Support, are welcome.

Andy continued: “In response to feedback, we’ve allocated places this year via a random ballot to give everyone an equal chance.

“The response has been overwhelming, with over 12,000 applications for 288 places.

"We’re looking forward to welcoming the lucky winners on September 28 and sharing our enthusiasm for this iconic structure.”

The Forth Bridges exhibition at Transport Scotland’s contact and education centre will also be open to the public from 9am until 5pm on the day, featuring special exhibits and educational activities. Advance booking is not necessary for the exhibition.

Everyone who attends either a bridge tour or the exhibition will have the chance to enter a charity prize draw for a once-in-a-lifetime trip for two to the top of the Queensferry Crossing’s main towers.