Work has started on a new pedestrian and cycle bridge on the River Clyst near Topsham.

The bridge, which will be built downstream from the existing road bridge at Fishers Mill, is designed to give walkers and cyclists a safe crossing point away from traffic and will link up with the Exe Estuary Cycle Trail.

It will feature a 28 metre central span, with a 50 metre timber boardwalk approach to elevate users above the salt marshes.

The whole project will cost �500,000 and is being funded by Devon County Council and Sustrans, a charity which has been handed a �50 million Big Lottery Fund grant to extend the National Cycle Network.

Sustrans area manager for Devon, Peter Grainger, said: “With over 5,000 people resident in the villages to the east of Topsham, getting across the River Clyst is the only way to get to school, work, or the shops in the town. The new bridge will provide a safe and attractive way for local people to make the journeys they make everyday, without needing to rely on a car.”

Topsham county councillor Andrew Leadbetter said: “After campaigning for this safe crossing for many years, I am absolutely delighted that work is beginning.”