A FOOTBRIDGE is to open this weekend, replacing one washed away in the December 2015 floods.

The new Carver Bridge over the River Darwen, which links Samlesbury and Coupe Green, is twice as long as its predecessor and much higher.

The improved design will be better able to resist damage from floods should water levels become too high.

The bridge, which has cost £500,000, has been built by the county council's in-house team. It can be used from Saturday.

Cllr Keith Iddon, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "Many bridges in the area were badly damaged during the floods in the winter of 2015 and the new Carver Bridge is part of our plans to repair them.

"It's great that people will once again be able to cross the River Darwen by foot at Coupe Green.

"The bridge is arched and built in a style that fits in with the surrounding area. Supports at either end of the bridge have been covered using stonework from the original Carver Bridge."