A RIVERSIDE bridleway that links Cutcombe to Dunkery has been repaired.

Exmoor National Park Authority consulted local riders when a short section of the bridleway became unusable.

The riders said that they would rather keep the route open than have a new one created further up in the woods.

Part of the path had been undermined by the River Avil, which runs alongside it, and has been closed for short periods while its safety was monitored.

Dan Barnett, the park authority's access manager, said: "We wanted to keep the path by the river if possible as it is a better route and the repair option only cost a little more than a diversion, which would have required significant ground works to avoid a long and steep route."

Local engineer Kelvin Rufus was brought in to see what could be done and, after consulting Natural England and the Environment Agency, the work was put out to tender.

Local contractor Geoff Tucker was appointed and the work was carried out in April.

Local rider and organiser of the Golden Horseshoe, Barbara Wigley said: "I have just been down to look at this path and all I can say is 'wow!'

"After raising concerns about this section last year, I have been looking forward to seeing just what could be done about it and I honestly thought that it would have to be diverted onto a higher path.

"The work that has been done looks like a major undertaking, and has certainly made the path easier to ride, with nice high rails to keep horse away from the edge - this path will definitely be on my next escorted bridleways ride."