Most, if not all, of you will be aware of the hitherto dangerously slippery ford going through the brook on Oxenhall Lane, near Gorsley.  Similarly, most, if not all, of you will be aware that for many years we have been trying to construct a bridge adjacent to the ford, so that cyclists and walkers can cross the steam safely, especially in the spring and summer when the algae growth is at its maximum and hence most dangerous.

It took over eight years to bring the idea to fruition but, in March 2023, the bridge was at last constructed and since then it has been well used by cyclists and walkers alike, and has received many complimentary remarks about both its usefulness and its aesthetically pleasing design.

For various reasons we were unable to hold a formal opening ceremony until October 2023, when County Councillor Gill Moseley, who had played a significant part in funding the bridge, cut the ribbon.  Gorsley & Kilcot Parish Council had been very supportive, morally and financially, and the Chair, Councillor Nigel Warwick, said a few words, then on a rope lifted a bottle of bubbly out of the stream.  After distribution to the assembled company, together with some nibbles, the Chair of NCG, Steve Delacourt, proposed a toast to the bridge and all who would use her! 

Amongst the speeches, mention was also made of Andrew Middlecote of Gloucestershire Highways, who also contributed to the funding, the Gloucestershire Rights of Way team who contributed the steelwork, Dean Martin, the excellent contractor who made a fine job of the construction, and Councillor Graham Price, from Gorsley & Kilcot Parish Council, who took the project under his wing, and without whose advice and support it may never have happened.

Now for your own safety, make sure you use the bridge!