THE West Devon Association of the National Trust (NTWDA) has invited John Stuart, a local historian and photographer, to give a digital presentation entitled the ‘Clapper bridges of Dartmoor’.

The illustrated talk will take place at 2pm on Thursday, April 21 in Bridestowe Village Hall.

The term ‘clapper bridge’ is one used on Dartmoor for a type of bridge that spans a river or stream and has one or more flat stone slabs, which in turn rest on stone piers. Although often labelled with prehistoric origin, most were erected in medieval times and some in later centuries.

John has extensively researched this subject and he has been involved in covering a lot of ground to search out and photograph all these traditional crossing points on the moor. His presentation consists of many original photographs and is accompanied by various tales and humorous anecdotes. He is the author of a book entitled ‘The Clapper Bridges of Dartmoor — some myths and tall tales of the moor’ and copies of his book will be available to purchase on the day.

It is not necessary to be a member of the National Trust to attend these local meetings and everyone is most welcome.