A PATH through ancient woodland was completed yesterday when a 14metre-long bridge was moved into place over a stream.

Conservation volunteers helped to ease the footbridge into position over the brook in the Congburn Wood Nature Reserve near Chester-le-Street.

With the £8,000 bridge in place, the circular walk through the nature reserve is complete.

Alastair Semple, countryside officer for the Chester-le-Street district, said: "We wanted to make sure the reserve was as accessible to people as possible.

"The bridge was put in by Durham County Council, and volunteers have helped to create a second pathway connecting it to the main walk.

"It means that more people can enjoy the fabulous ancient woodland, which is a haven for all kinds of wildlife."