Bridge users can register at www.forthroadbridge.org to receive automatic alerts about restrictions and traffic delays by SMS text or email.

The service is fully customisable, so users can specify exactly which restrictions or delays they wish to be notified about, on what days and at what times.

Current bridge restrictions and wind speeds are displayed on the home page. Automatic sensors on the approach roads give warning of delays as they happen and a range of webcams provide views of the traffic.

The site also features a graph showing wind data for the previous 24 hours. Aspiring engineers can even take a tour of the structure via an interactive 3D model of the bridge.

An illustrated timeline provides a history of the crossing, and the image gallery contains a wealth of recent and archive photography.

There are details on essential maintenance projects required to keep the bridge safe and open to traffic.

Forth Road Bridge convener Phil Wheeler said: "This website offers users some really useful new services.

"I'd encourage all regular bridge users to register for traffic alerts. Once you've set these up you need never be caught out again.

"Anyone with an interest in bridge engineering or the history of the Forth will also find the site fascinating."

editorial@journalandgazette.co.uk