Sir Jack Hayward bridge opens in the Bahamas

The former Wolves owner arrived in Grand Bahama in 1956 and was one of the pioneers who set up Freeport – a vast free-trade zone and city.

The Grand Bahama Highway Bridge is intended to make travelling easier by creating a second connection between the east side of Grand Bahama and the west where the city of Freeport is.

It was a long-awaited dream of Sir Jack who spent decades promoting the development of Freeport.

Sir Jack's son, Rick Hayward, and his long-term companion Patti Bloom, both attended the bridge's opening ceremony on Monday.

Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Perry Christie, said the bridge ensured the 'enormity' of Sir Jack's contribution 'will go well into the future'.

Dr. Michael Darville, the minister for Grand Bahama, praised Sir Jack's vision.

He said: "Sadly, on January 13th 2015, Sir Jack Hayward passed away. Nevertheless, the leadership he exemplified and his ability to unite and inspire others around a vision and work towards a common goal has been a significant driver behind the successful execution of this project."

"Unfortunately, he did not live to see this day, but on behalf of all of us who knew him and worked closely with him, I would like to take this opportunity to thank his family and the principals of the Grand Bahama Port Authority for facilitating this project."

The bridge, which cost £3 million, had been due to open last June but was delayed by snags.