A footbridge across the River Gipping, which was closed for 80 years after falling into disrepair, has been finally restored. 

Trustees and volunteers from the River Gipping Trust rebuilt the original bridge at Baylham which dates from 1793 and was reported to be at the bottom of the river in 1943. 

After £25,000 of funding, the bridge is now ready for walkers and includes wheelchair access. 

East Anglian Daily Times: River Gipping Trust volunteers rebuilt the bridge, River Gipping TrustRiver Gipping Trust volunteers rebuilt the bridge, River Gipping Trust (Image: River Gipping Trust)

The volunteers have worked tirelessly in all weathers, not only on the bridge but also on clearing the riverside path to make it a very pleasant route for everybody. 

A crowd of more than 70 people watched MP Dr Dan Poulter cut the red ribbon to declare the new footbridge officially open. 

East Anglian Daily Times: MP Dan Poulter cutting the ribbon, River Gipping TrustMP Dan Poulter cutting the ribbon, River Gipping Trust (Image: River Gipping Trust)

Dr Poulter said: "I was delighted to be invited as guest of honour to officially open the new bridge and pleased to give my support to this and future projects of the trust.  

"It’s clear to see that Dr Warren and the team are incredibly enthusiastic about maintaining an outstanding environment for people to enjoy and benefit from.

"I was also pleased to meet so many of the hardworking volunteers.  

"We are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful county and have so many people who are willing to care for it." 

East Anglian Daily Times: MP Dan Poulter, John Warren and Ian Petchey, River Gipping TrustMP Dan Poulter, John Warren and Ian Petchey, River Gipping Trust (Image: River Gipping Trust)

The chairman of the trust, John Warren, presented Mr Poulter with a copy of the trust's new book about the history of the Gipping and congratulated the volunteers on their achievement.  

Mr Warren applauded the volunteers’ "can do" attitude and described them as "an inspiration and a joy to work with". 

The restoration has been managed by Ian Petchey, who spoke about the challenges and how the original bridge was reported to be at the bottom of the river 80 years ago. 

East Anglian Daily Times: MP Dan Poulter, John Warren and Ian Petchey, River Gipping TrustMP Dan Poulter, John Warren and Ian Petchey, River Gipping Trust (Image: River Gipping Trust)

Not resting on its laurels, River Gipping Trust is already considering another bridge in a similar condition, that also needs replacing.