A LEADING campaigner battling to widen a flood-damaged bridge, shut for more than 18 months after being partially washed away, is celebrating a victory.

Parish councillor Ernie O'Keefe successfully lobbied Ripon area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council to support widening Creet's Bridge at Kirkby Malzeard, near Ripon.

Planning officer Bill McEwan had recommended councillors object to the widening. But they voted to urge North Yorkshire County Council planners on June 11 to support a wider crossing.

Coun O'Keefe, a member of Kirkby Malzeard Parish Council, helped to collect more than 360 names on a petition calling for the bridge to be widened.

The campaign secured 40 letters of support from business people, and attracted a rival petition, which was not so heavily backed.

Coun O'Keefe said last night: "I presented my facts and figures to the committee on behalf of the parish council and was delighted by the vote to widen. It was a significant victory."

The bridge is currently closed and bypassed by a temporary structure. English Heritage has been a strong objector to widening it.