The answer to the knockers on this site

[rov1200]

Well done AOG et al your idea of using the Army has been heeded

Engineers are continuing to explore options on road connections, but in the meantime work is to begin on installing a temporary footbridge upstream of Calva Bridge.

Up to 200 soldiers will work in shifts around the clock, with foundations due to be in place by 29 November.

Then the bridge, which is being transported in sections, will be assembled and dropped into place, and there are hopes it will be open to the public by 5 December.

The funding has come from the government's recovery package for the flood-hit area.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, leader of Cumbria County Council, said: "Our highways engineers have been pulling out all the stops and working with the army to make this happen as soon as possible.

"It's vital that we get people moving and able to cross the river."

The military effort is being co-ordinated by the regional Brigade for North West England, 42 (North West) Brigade.

Brigadier Bill Aldridge said: "The Army is very much part of society and part of the fabric of Cumbria where my Brigade is based, and we are determined to do what we can to assist in the recovery from these devastating floods."