VILLAGERS gave a "sigh of relief" after an unsafe bridge was finally replaced. 

Himbleton villagers finally have their bridge back after Worcestershire County Council deemed it was unsafe for use.

It had led to a two-month campaign by county councillor Marc Bayliss to reinstate the bridge as soon as possible because it was a well-used walkway among residents and ramblers.

The bridge over Bowbrook, near Droitwich, was finally installed on Monday (September 30).

“I was really sorry to see the old bridge condemned as it's such a well-used part of local infrastructure, and I knew villagers would be so sad to have the footpath and route closed," said Cllr Bayliss. 

"Himbleton and the surrounding area is one of the most beautiful parts of our county, and the village gets plenty of visitors. 

"I am really delighted to see the new bridge installed so quickly. 

"I celebrated along with residents in Himbleton at the installation of the new bridge over Bowbrook thanks to the work of the County Council.

"The team at the county council have really done us proud and I want to say a big thank you to them.

"The new bridge was delivered in kit form and assembled on site and will now allow the footpath to be reopened for local residents and other visitors to enjoy."