AN ANCIENT pack horse bridge in Higherford that becomes dangerously slippery for pedestrians in the wet weather has been fitted with a handrail and steps to make it safer.

Lancashire County Councillor Tim Ormrod campaigned for more than two years to have the safety measures put into place after receiving complaints from local residents who had experienced difficulties getting over it safely when it became slippery.

The bridge, which dates back to the 1500s, is still used as a public highway and so is the responsibility of the county council. But because it is listed as an ancient monument it is also protected by English Heritage.

Coun Ormrod said the new safety measures were desperately needed, but because of its historic value, any alterations have to meet very stringent conditions.

He said: "The problem was that in wet weather it was becoming very slippery and dangerous for people walking over it.

"I was asked some time ago if I could get a handrail fitted. However, it is a listed structure, so any work we did on it had to be approved by English Heritage and had to be made from the right materials.

"The handrail had to be made from wrought iron and we had to scan Europe for scrap wrought iron to make it. The rail then had to be very carefully fitted so it did not damage the bridge in any way.

"The good news is that it is now in place just as the onset of winter comes. Now residents and the many walkers who use the bridge can enjoy it in safety."