WHEN the Sedgefield by-pass was started I was as foreman given the task of overseeing the construction of Sands Hall and Spring Lane bridge.

I was at the same time in charge of constructing a farmers' underpass from the show field into Hardwick Park.

From the end of the underpass down to the Serpentine was so overgrown it was nearly impossible to reach the stream.

When you did fight your way through, the stream was so clogged the water was barely flowing. Some years later I was sent back as clerk of works to oversee the reconstruction of the Serpentine bridge and could only marvel at the work the friends of Hardwick Park had accomplished.

Today it attracts thousands of visitors and gives pleasure to all.

By the way there is a time capsule in one of the wing walls of the bridge.

Taff Davies, Fishburn.