Villagers celebrated the long-awaited reopening of an important Grade II-listed bridleway between Abingdon and nearby villages.

The Mill Road Bridge reopening event – organised by the Marcham Society - saw dozens of happy walkers swing by for a photo opportunity in celebration of the completed repair works.

The Marcham bridge is an important link in the footpath network, and will now once again allow walkers to access bridleways and footpaths towards Drayton, Steventon and Abingdon.

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County Councillor for Abingdon South Neil Fawcett said: “I am delighted that the bridge has reopened after a ten year wait.

“This is an important route for walkers linking Marcham, Drayton and Abingdon.”

Oxford Mail: Villagers gathered at the newly reopened Mill Road Bridge in Marcham

Eric Dunford, chairman of the Marcham Society, said: “My wife Sheila and I have opened a lot of pathways and footpaths in the parish.

“Us and the parish council thought it would be nice to celebrate the bridge’s reopening after 10 years. The official opening, with various dignitaries, will be in November I believe.

“It was a double celebration because the Crown pub has reopened within the last two weeks too, so we popped in for a few drinks after visiting the bridge.”

The bridleway was originally closed because the bridge was unsafe for all public and private users, with a big hole in it and unsafe stonework all around.

The bridge may have collapsed at any time, according to the county council.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1