Storm Desmond-destroyed historic Bell Bridge replaced

Image source, Cumbria County Council

Image caption, As much of the original stone as possible was incorporated onto the new bridge

A new bridge to replace a 245-year-old one destroyed by Storm Desmond has opened, restoring the link between two rural communities.

Bell Bridge at Sebergham collapsed into the River Caldew six weeks after being hit by the December 2015 storm.

The 拢1.1m structure has been designed to withstand future floods and incorporates stone from the old bridge.

It was opened by Councillor John Bell, Leader of Cumbria County Council.

Image source, Cumbria County Council

Image caption, The bridge collapsed six weeks after being damaged by Storm Desmond

The Bell Bridge, named after a family from a nearby farm, was built in 1772 and was a Grade II-listed structure.

Image source, Cumbria County Council

Image caption, The bridge reunites the communities of Welton and Sebergham near Carlisle