WALKERS and cyclists will be able to navigate the Wyre Forest a little easier thanks to a new bridge currently being erected at Dowles Brook.

The heavy-duty structure will allow nature lovers to cross the brook all year round said Richard Boles from the Forestry Commission.

Mr Boles said until now the nearest crossing had been at a ford which was prone to flooding, making crossing the brook a headache.

He said the ford could now be removed to benefit wildlife.

"The flat hard surface of the old ford is a barrier which creatures like freshwater crayfish fear to cross," he said.

"Removing the concrete will re-create the rough stony stream bed they and other aquatic animals prefer to move along."

The bridge is being built on the site of a similar structure which has long since disappeared.

The road which leads to it will now be re-established for foresters' lorries.

Mr Boles said he hoped the bridge would be finished by next Friday, May 16.