A footbridge created by an 83-year-old Angus fisherman is to be restored after it was accidentally destroyed.
Eric Duncan built “Eric’s Bridge” in East Haven more than a decade ago to give residents a means of crossing the local burn.
Contractors removed the much-loved structure last year while building the new coastal path, leaving some locals feeling a piece of community history had been lost.
Members of the East Haven 800 group vowed to rebuild the popular structure ahead of the village’s 800th anniversary celebrations next year.
Spokeswoman Wendy Murray said the structure is now in line to be unveiled by the start of next month.
She added: “Eric is one of East Haven’s oldest residents and a former joiner and fisherman.
“Children and adults regarded Eric’s bridge with great affection, as not only did it prevent the feet getting wet when trying to cross the burn but it was an attractive addition to the local coastal landscape.
“Angus Council arranged for the contractors to supply a number of replacement timbers, BT stepped in to help with the provision of telegraph poles and MacKay’s boat builders in Arbroath provided rope. A Carnoustie man with former connections to the village supplied sleepers to build a strong foundation for the bridge.”
Local resident Jack Scott led the project, which has taken approximately eight weeks, with farmer James Porter providing a vehicle to move the largest timbers into position.
People of all ages and abilities have been involved and, despite being in his eighties, Eric has been able to participate.
Wendy added: “At times, it seemed as if the bridge would never be complete and this served as a reminder that Eric built the bridge on his own all those years ago.
“Everyone involved is extremely pleased to see Eric’s bridge replaced and we feel a great sense of pride in the achievement.”
Local councillors will be invited to the opening of the bridge at 2pm on October 6. The organisers hope Eric will be able to attend to cut the ribbon.