London Eye's most memorable moments as part of London's skyline - Film and TV cameos to celeb visitors

After the London Eye went viral this week following a spoof Facebook post suggesting it had been dismantled to be taken to Loch Lomond in Scotland, here's a look back at the landmark's past two decades as part of the capital's South Bank.

First, put up in 1999 as the Millennium Wheel, the structure has become a familiar part of London's skyline and a recognisable landmark across the globe.

Over the past 20 years the London Eye has been the backdrop of London's New Year fireworks and has even lit up for different events, including the Eurovision Song Contest and the premiere of the Barbie movie.

We break down some of the beloved wheel's most memorable moments, from its TV and film cameos to some of the celebrity visitors it has welcomed over the years.

It's lit up for many a royal milestone

London's famous wheel previously celebrated the royal weddings of both Prince William and Kate Middleton and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle by lighting up red, white, and blue.

 The structure was also illuminated in honour of royal babies following the announcement of Prince Louis's birth and Prince Harry's first son Archie.

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You've probably spotted it on screen

Some of TV and film's most iconic titles have featured the London Eye, including Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and Doctor Who, with it also having also been cartoonised for The Simpsons.

It's attracted many a celeb visit

Kate Moss and Angelina Jolie are just some of the famous faces who have visited the attraction over the years. Jessica Alba is even reported to have enjoyed over 30 rotations of the wheel.

It's hosted musical performances in its pods

As well as celebrity visitors, the London Eye's pods have also welcomed some of music's biggest names for performances, including the likes of Lily Allen and James Bay.

It's had a number of different names

While it has been mostly known as the London Eye to many over the years, it has had quite a few different official names reflecting its various sponsors. From British Airways London Eye to Coca-Cola London Eye, it is currently known as Lastminute.com London Eye.