DELIGHT AS NEW BRIDGE IS FINISHED AFTER CAMPAIGN

The bridge is the only way that riders in the area can reach a network of well-used bridleways through woodlands across the river at Ashurst.

At the time, the crossing point was a concrete bridge with steep access slopes at each end and metal slats on the concrete. It was high above the river, with only scaffolding poles acting as a barrier for horse and rider along the edges as they crossed the water.

She appealed on behalf of other riders to West Sussex County Council for the bridge to replaced, and Sussex Horse World backed her campaign after a visit to the spot.

Today Linda is delighted that the council has recently finished work on replacing the bridge and has taken the trouble to erect concrete mounting blocks on either side to help riders who have to dismount to cross the river.

She said: "We are delighted with the first-class job they have done, which now opens up a vast area of safe riding to us. The new bridge is fantastic '“ level and with a good surface and protected sides, while the mounting blocks are a real bonus.

For full story see West Sussex Gazette, Sussex Horse World, September 5