Riddle of the missing bridge (From Warrington Guardian)

Riddle of the missing bridge

IN accordance with the Government's 'Walk to School' campaign, whenever possible, I walk my two youngest children home from school taking the safest route. This is from Mere School, Eccleston, over Millfields Road, passing the Griffin, through the churchyard then along a path which crosses a bridge over the stream, then along a path coming out through the church hall car park and into Chapel Lane.

This is a pleasant and safe route avoiding Church Lane and the busy roundabout at Pikes Bridge. We then cross Chapel Lane, over Broadway and into Springfield Lane in the director of home.

We have walked the churchyard route many times until Thursday, May 20, when we discovered the bridge over the stream had been removed. It was there on Tuesday, May 18 when we walked home from school. We were not the only ones to be surprised by the missing bridge which resulted in us turning left along the stream and coming out on to the bus stop in Church Lane by the busy roundabout.

Why was there no prior announcement or notice posted by the bridge to forewarn people of its intended removal? Why has it got to be removed, thus spoiling a safe route for children walking to school, avoiding the roundabout and Church Lane, or for others who enjoy walking through the natural environment?

DR S Green, Park House Surgery, Higher Parr Street, St Helens.