A NEW landmark dedicated to the memory of one of Devon's most famous former residents, Sir Francis Drake, was opened last week in Tavistock.

A new bridge for cyclists and walkers across the River Tavy at Crowndale was officially opened by Devon County Council chairman Cllr John Rawlinson.

The ceremony was also attended by those responsible for the construction of the bridge, cyclists and staff and students from Tavistock College.

The £332,000 bridge, funded by Devon County Council, South West Regional Development Agency and the European Regional Development Fund, forms a critical link in the development of Drake's Trail, as the National Cycle Network from Tavistock to Plymouth is known.

A county council spokesperson said that as Sir Francis was reputed to have been born in Crowndale some 450 years ago and is arguably West Devon's most famous former resident, the Crowndale bridge is the latest landmark built in his honour.

Mr Rawlinson said: 'This dramatic new bridge will help to reduce congestion and increase healthy activity in the town.

'The route gives access to Tavistock Football Club and Crowndale Playing Fields where a big lottery project is planned. People will be able to reach these sports facilities using healthy forms of transport.'

Cllr Margaret Rogers, a county council executive member for environment, said: 'I'm sure it will be well used by local cyclists and walkers as well as visitors. Drake's Trail is being assembled piece by piece and there is only about one kilometre left to agree. It is hoped Crowndale Bridge will help cyclists follow Drake's example and secure a safe passage to Plymouth.'

West Devon Borough Council is developing additional circular walking and cycle routes to complement the new Drake's Trail route being created by Devon County Council. These routes will allow walkers and cyclists access to some spectacular scenery as they discover sites of interest connected to Drake. Local project partner Drake's Dartmoor is also helping to promote the area (http://www.drakesdartmoor.co.uk">www.drakesdartmoor.co.uk).

Tavistock's county councillor Roy Connelly said: 'The bridge provides a safe route to school, allowing pupils an off-road route to Tavistock College. Previously, children used to use main road routes to reach the school but this is a much better alternative and also leads on to the Wharf, the leisure centre and the town centre.'

Mountain bike trials rider Andrei Burton, who is sponsored by Devon County Council, was there to provide spectacular entertainment to enthral all who attended the bridge opening.

Andrei, who is Britain's number one trials rider, wowed everyone with a series of bicycle stunts.

ABOVE: Cllr Rawlinson cuts the tape. Also shown are Tavistock mayor and mayoress Robin and Diana Pike, and county councillor Margaret Rogers.

LEFT: The first cyclists cross the bridge

Pictures by James Bird