Cumbria took another step forward in its return to normality following the floods – as a new bridge was lowered into place.

Knightsbridge, an important link between Keswick town centre and Fitz Park was damaged in the Storm Desmond floods in December 2015.

Its loss cut Keswick in two and resulted in people having to take lengthy detours.

It was one of a number of bridges damaged or left with doubts over their safety following the floods, which also swamped homes and businesses.

The bridge was rebuilt and lowered back into place in a huge logistical exercise today.

Keswick mayor Susan Leighton could claim to have been the first to use the new bridge, even though she stepped onto it before it was put in place.

Keswick Tourism manager Vanessa Metcalfe said the move was a huge relief for people who had to put up with its loss.

She said: “This is a shorter and safer route between town and park. It is good for visitors to have the bridge back but also for locals.

“The bridge is used to access the sports clubs and the playground as well as being a link between the car park and town.”

Town councillor and chairman of Fitz Park Trust Adam Paxon paid tribute to the Keswick Lions Club, which contributed what he described as “an unprecedented” donation of £20,000.

He added: “I am delighted.”

Building the bridge was a first for Maryport firm MPM North West.

Michael John Hawkins, from the firm, said: “We have put a lot of bridges in place but never completely built one before.”

The bridge is 21m long and weighs 12.1 tonnes.

It was lifted into place by a 220-tonne crane from Lawsons Haulage of Cockermouth and it was painted by JE Foster and Son of Longtown.

It will stand at a greater height above the river than the old bridge to increase flood resilience.

“Rolling roads” – large rubber mats – were laid to protect the ground as the crane crawled into place.

Work will now need to be completed on the approaches and it is expected that Knightsbridge will be fully open by the end of next month.