FIFTY members of the Forest of Dean Ramblers cut the ribbon to the Upper Forge Bridge over the River Lyd.

A good crowd gathered to open the replacement footbridge last Tuesday, which was closed due to disrepair, and funded by the proceeds from a book produced by John Sheraton and Rod Goodman.

Chairman of the Ramblers, Mike Ingleby thanked those who have helped the effort.

He said: "The Dean Forest Railway was particularly important as the site is difficult to access; they used the engines and heavy lifting gear to transport and position the heavy components.

"Congratulations to Rod Goodman for excellent project leading and we felt sure that the bridge would continue to be known as 'Rod's Bridge' among the Ramblers."

Lydney Town Mayor, Bob Berryman added: "The bridge will now make it possible for people to access the extensive network of well used footpaths we have in this attractive and popular area."

President of the Ramblers, Kate Ashbrook unveiled the plaque and said: "It has taken the ramblers five years of hard work to raise the money, deal with all the technicalities of a footpath creation and the menace of Japanese knotweed, and eventually install the new bridge.

"It is a wonderful achievement and is a fine example of what can be achieved by determination and co-operative working."