Last Sunday they built a bridge… this Sunday they open it! The local community has come together to build this sturdy, sustainable bridge at Redberth.

Carew Community Councillor Simon Hosker-Hicks said: “I am so proud! The result is a great new addition to Redberth Park.”

He explained: “Not long ago, our much-loved old footbridge was left broken when two slats gave way.

“The bridge, already showing its age, had truly started to feel the test of time.

“But instead of losing it, our community came together with one clear voice: this bridge is worth saving.

“Over the past few days, that wish became reality. With the help of some generous local businesses and a lot of hard graft from neighbours and friends, the bridge now proudly stands once more.

“The new bridge, made from locally and sustainably sourced larchwood, has been carefully built to look just like the old oak one. Larch was chosen for its weathering properties, ensuring this bridge will hopefully serve our village for many years to come.

“This project would not have been possible without so many people giving their time, skills, equipment, tea, cake, and encouragement.”

Special thanks go to Vera for storing the timber on her drive; Matthew, Sally and Sam for taking the bridge down; David, Sally, Kerry, James, John, Barry, Nico, Guto and Iolo for building the bridge together. Gaynor, Bron, Margery, Janet and Nerys for providing sustenance to the workers.

“A very special thank you goes to Mr David Hughes, local carpenter from Cresselly,” added Simon. “Originally brought in for advice, David quickly became the cornerstone of this project. Without his expertise, specialist tools, and sheer generosity, we would never have achieved what we did.”

If you couldn’t join in but would still like to support this project and thank David for his time and the use of his equipment, donations can be given either to Simon or Sally Lord.

“Finally, a thank you must go to Sally Lord. One morning, standing on the old bridge while walking her dog, she said to me: ‘We can’t lose this bridge. It’s part of the village.’

“Remember: this bridge is for people only, not livestock,” Simon said. “Let’s look after it so it can serve the village for many years to come.”

The official Grand Opening of Redberth’s new bridge takes place this Sunday, October 5, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this new chapter for the village and catch up with neighbours.

“As many people as possible” are encouraged to bring their family, friends, and cameras, to meet at the bridge at 10.30am and give the new bridge the warmest Redberth welcome!

The ribbon will be cut by two very special guests – Tom James (97), Redberth’s oldest resident, and Penelope Smith (3), the village’s youngest resident – a lovely symbol of the whole community coming together.

“This new bridge is more than just wood and nails, it’s a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together. Thank you, Redberth, for showing what community spirit really looks like.”