“It was the right thing to do” says Mr Potter as bridge is saved

A vital bridge linking Oldford with Maesydre will be fit for generations after a long-term revamp was completed thanks to the aid of a well-known local businessman.

The footbridge was set to be closed last summer after being left to decay for decades with no-one taking ownership, but the Mayor at the time that the problem was revealed, Cllr Nick Howells, made it a mission for the Town Council to lead on saving it.

Letters went out to Welshpool businesses that went unanswered, and just as all looked doomed, a phone call from out of the blue saved the day.

“The letter had sat on my desk for a while before I gave Nick a call to see how things were progressing with the bridge,” said Mr Potter. “He said he had received little response so I felt it was the right thing to do.”

Mr Potter chipped in the lion’s share of the £13,000 needed to save the day, with Powys County Council stumping up a £2,500 grant. Materials were also donated by Newtown company Hafren Security Fasteners.

“I take my hat off to Mr James Potter without whom the bridge would have closed,” said Cllr Howells at the official opening, attended by fellow town councillors. “I am sure I can speak on behalf of the town by saying thank-you very much sir.”

Work on the bridge took place last summer but the Town Council wanted to thank Mr Potter in person with an official ceremony. The Welshpool businessman cut the ribbon with Deputy Mayor Cllr David France (Pictured).