A WICHELSTOWE footbridge has finally opened - four months after the 28 tonne structure was winched into place between Waitrose and the new Hall and Woodhouse pub.

The 35 metre bridge crosses the Wilts and Berks Canal. Designed by artist Sebastien Boysen, it features nature-inspired laser cut steel panels filled with coloured resin designed to catch the light.

Coun Gary Sumner, Swindon Borough Council's cabinet member for strategic planning, said: “I am delighted to see another piece of the Wichelstowe jigsaw slotted firmly into place.

“This footbridge, so beautifully designed by Sebastien, will act as a focal point that will make getting around the district centre much easier.”

Dozens of people watched in March when the bridge was lifted into place. Jenny Stratton, 69, said: “Seeing this part of the canal growing up with Waitrose and now this has been tremendous.”