A BRIDGE over the River Tamar which has been closed since February 1 after a van went through a section of it, reopened to traffic on Tuesday evening, two days ahead of schedule.

Owners of Newbridge at Gunnislake Devon County Council said engineers and stonemasons had worked hard to have the bridge reopened as quickly as possible and that diversion signs were removed on Wednesday morning.

The 15th century listed bridge took longer than some to rebuild as lime mortar had to be used instead of cement which took longer to set. Stonemasons have been working six days a week to repair the structure.

Motorists faced long diversions while the bridge was closed but an access route was created for pedestrians in order to access the 79 bus service between Callington and Tavistock and for cyclists.

The buses have been well used by local residents getting to work, school and college.