A FUND-raising appeal is underway to pay for a new bridge next to an ancient Exmoor river crossing at Tarr Steps which is believed to have stood since the Bronze Age.

The 17-span, 55-yard Tarr Steps clapper bridge over the River Barle is the longest in the country and is made entirely from large stone slabs and boulders.

It has been damaged by storms and repaired many times over the centuries, most recently in floods in January of this year, which saw it reopened only in June.

Now, Exmoor National Park Authority hopes to raise £120,000 for a new bridge for walkers and horse riders to be laid in Great Bradley, between Tarr Steps and Withypool.

It has a pre-used bridge structure given by Devon County Council and has already sourced much of the funding, but is appealing for public help to bring in a further £20,000.

National park access and recreation manager Dan Barnett said: “The footpath which makes up part of the long-distance walking route the Two Moors Way, has always followed a permitted path in this location.

“The path here has become very unsafe due to heavy erosion caused by flooding.

“It is also an ecologically special area and ongoing path erosion and sediment loss is not good for the river’s fish and other wildlife.

“We plan to divert walkers on to the other side of the River Barle, where a public right of way already exists, by building a new bridge.

“This will ensure that the route is secured for years to come.”

Mr Barnett said the new bridge location was remote and difficult to reach for construction vehicles, and the river there could run fast and deep, making it a challenging project to deliver.

He said: “We are fortunate to have had a bridge structure donated by Devon County Council that was used temporarily as part of a road scheme, and we are delighted that we will be able to reuse the main steel structure of this.

“However, we need to add an approach ramp, build the abutment supports, and replace all the timber.

“The total estimated cost is around £120,000. We have managed to secure a large amount of this through various grants, donations, and our own reserves, but we are now appealing to the public to help us raise a further £20,000.”

National park chief executive Sarah Bryan said: “The location of the new bridge on part of the Two Moors Way and so near to Tarr Steps makes it a project that we know will tug at the heart strings of the visitors who know and love this special part of Exmoor.

“We are holding a raffle and there are some great prizes on offer. We are extremely grateful to local businesses such as Exmoor Forest Inn, Highcliff House, Westerclose House, Hillways Farm, Stockham Farm, Wellhayes Vineyard, Wild about Exmoor, Exmoor Distillery, and Wicked Wolf who have donated prizes.

“Tickets can be purchased from our National Park Centres or online and the draw will take place on October 6.

“Local businesses Tarr Farm Inn, Withypool Shop and Tea Rooms, and the Royal Oak at Withypool, are all behind the CareMoor campaign and are selling tickets and running events to help us raise funds.

“We really hope their efforts will be well supported by the public.

“With everybody’s help we can secure the popular walking route for future generations and make it safe for walkers and riders to cross the river.

“The bridge will also be the perfect place for walkers to stop, rest, and reflect.”

The park authority is also offering dedication plaques to be placed on the bridge for people to remember somebody special to them, or to celebrate a special occasion, or simply show their love for the area.

Donations direct to the appeal can also be made online or at National Park Centres.

More information about the campaign can be found by visiting the website www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/caremoor/what-we-fund/access/great-bradley-bridge.