TWO fundraising heroes have been chosen to open the celebrations to mark 150 years of Barrow ports.

Gavin Andrews and Sonja Foster will kick the day off on Sunday with the lifting of Michaelson Road bridge at 11.50am.

Mr Andrews, who is operations manager at Dong Energy, has raised more than £40,000 for the North West Air Ambulance after the death of his son Joe.

Mrs Foster has raised funds for the Brathay Trust by running 10 marathons in 10 days for three years in a row.

After the two have lifted the bridge, a parade will take place starting in Michaelson Road at noon, heading to the town hall, and towards the town quay where all the events will take place.

Companies and groups involved in the parade include: ABP, supporting Ramsden Infants; Dong, supporting St Mary's Hospice and Dalton Community Centre; INS/Secro, supporting the Sea Cadets; Youth Ability group; Islanders Dance Troupe; and Elite Dance.

The free event will see live music by local singers, bands and choirs from 1.30pm until 4.30pm.

Performers include: Dennis Horan, Beth Horan, Talia Brumbley, Tiffany Southward, Cora May Brennan, South Lakes Rock School Choir, Marvellous Events' children's characters as well as Elite Dance and Islanders Dance Troupe.

Carl Bevan, ABP divisional port manager said: "ABP are excited to be holding a fun yet important event on Sunday and we are encouraging people to recognise the port and the importance it has had on the town over the last 150 years.

"We are looking at a prosperous and exciting future and we want to reflect on the history and celebrate this significant milestone with the Barrow community."

The unveiling of a plaque will take place at 1.15pm, this will become a permanent fixture on the town quay to commemorate the 150th anniversary.

A variety of vessels will be berthed at the docks, one of which will be the Royal Navy's HMS Express .

The Archer-class P2000-type patrol boat will be opened up to the public for a quick tour and photo opportunity.

Submariners will also be in attendance along with the Royal Marine Visibility Team who will deliver some fitness activities, as well as a representative from the Armed Forces Careers Office in Carlisle.