WALKERS and riders on Exmoor are being warned they may have to find an alternative route after weekend storms swept away a river footbridge.

The timber bridge was destroyed at Beech Tree Ford, spanning Dane’s Brook, an eight-mile-long tributary of the River Barle, below Whiterocks Down, near Hawkridge.

Castle Bridge a mile downstream was also badly damaged by floodwaters following heavy rainfall on Friday night (June 13) but still passable with care.

Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) said the brook rose by more than six feet in under two hours at the Brushford Gauge following the storm.

An ENPA spokesperson said: “The bridleway remains open as the adjacent ford is still passable when conditions allow.

Weekend storms saw a small Exmoor river rise by more than six feet in less than two hours and sweep away a bridge and trees. PHOTO: ENPA.
Weekend storms saw a small Exmoor river rise by more than six feet in less than two hours and sweep away a bridge and trees. PHOTO: Ross Campbell. ( )

“But walkers/cyclists please be aware you will need to wade through the water.

“Please do not attempt to cross when the river is high, find an alternative route.”