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Prince Philip

The Duke of Edinburgh opens the world’s first vertical cable car

The Duke of Edinburgh officially opened the world’s first vertical cable car on Friday in the English seaside town of Brighton.

Whilst opening the new British Airways i360, the 95-year-old Prince went for a ride on the cable car in an observation pod.

The one of a kind attraction was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects, who were also the creators of the world famous London Eye.

The British Airways i360 stands at a height of 162 metres in the Brighton skyline. It also holds the Guinness World Record the world’s most slender tower – with a diameter of just 3.9 metres at its widest point.

The observation pod promised to attract local residents and holiday-makers alike as it offers stunning views of Brighton beach and the whole south coast.

During his trip on the observation pod, The Queen’s husband met the people who created the structure including engineers and members of the construction crew

Also in attendance to meet The Duke were representatives from Brighton & Hove City Council and members of the West Pier Trust.

Before Prince Philip left to attend his next engagement, he signed the visitor’s book, unveiled a plaque and joined some of the other guests for lunch.

The Duke has a keen interest in engineering and said last year that “engineers come only second to God”.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, The Duke of Edinburgh spoke highly of the important work of engineers as they perform an essential function, saying is hard to imagine life without them.

Prince Philip said: “everything not invented by God is invented by an engineer”. He went on to add that engineers hold the key to the future of humanity and its ability to continue to thrive on the planet.

The 94 year old prince continued: “The whole of our infrastructure, from sewers to power supplies and communication, everything that wasn’t invented by God is invented by an engineer.”

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