SIX months of major work to restore a 120-year-old suspension bridge to its former glory have been completed.

Canford suspension bridge provides a much used pedestrian link across the River Stour but its foundations and steelwork were seriously eroded after years of exposure to the elements.

The work required the bridge to be dismantled so that new pile foundations could be installed and the deteriorated elements of the bridge replaced.

The £180,000 refurbishment included cleaning and repainting the bridge before it was re-erected with new columns, cables, cable hangers and connections.

Poole Mayor, Cllr Phil Eades and Wimborne Mayor, Cllr Andy Hampton cut a ribbon to officially open the restored bridge before being the first to walk across.

“I am very pleased to see this popular pedestrian bridge restored to its former glory,” said Cllr Eades. “It’s great to see that the special character of the bridge has been retained for future generations to enjoy.”

The work was equally funded by Borough of Poole and Dorset County Council and was carried out by Topbond PLC.

Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder responsible for transportation in Poole said the councils had worked together for the benefit of residents of Poole and Wimborne.

“In addition Canford School have played a key role in facilitating these works.

“Their support in allowing us to use their land for accessing the bridge and also collecting and storing bridge parts on the hard surface by the rowing club, has been very welcome.”