PUPILS cut a ribbon before having the first try of a new walking and cycling bridge in Bridport.

The Sir John Colfox and St Catherine’s Primary school students performed the honours at St Cecilia’s Bridge.

They were joined by Sustrans and Dorset County Council representatives as well as Bridport mayor David Rickard for the ceremony opposite St Catherine’s Primary School.

St Cecilia’s Bridge and its adjoining path connect the new Dibdin View estate and residents in North Allington to the National Cycle Network on Pymore Road.

Sustrans area manager Kevin Humphreys said: “The bridge link has been an aspiration of the local community in Bridport for at least 10 years.

“So it has been great to work with Dorset County Council to deliver something residents have wanted for so long.”

St Cecilia’s crosses the river Brit. The bridge and traffic-free path are 350 metres long.

Children will be able to reach their schools safely and residents can use the route to walk or cycle to shops and amenities.

New secure cycle shelters have been installed at the schools as part of the project.

It was completed using funding from Dorset County Council’s Local Transport Plan and Sustrans.

The scheme was delivered with Magna Housing Association and West Dorset District Council.

The project was part of Sustrans’ work to connect communities to their schools, colleges and wider networks of routes, including the National Cycle Network.

County transport member Peter Finney said: “The new bridge and linking cycle route give children the opportunity to travel safely and healthily to school on foot and by bicycle. “This will help to reduce traffic congestion at the school gates, so should be beneficial for keeping traffic moving smoothly in the area during the morning rush hour.”

Magna director David Aldwinckle added: “The bridge will make a big difference to local people’s lives.

“Magna is very pleased to have been involved in this scheme.

“We know the residents of Dibdin View and others living nearby will make good use of it.

“It just shows what can be achieved by working together for the benefit of the local community.”