A spectacular footbridge is set to open in Swindon. The back section of the Priory Vale Bridge, spanning 63 metres across the Northern Orbital Road, was threaded through a sleek A-frame structure yesterday (Thursday) after being transported by road from the north east.

The cable-stayed design, suitable for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders, has taken a year to perfect.

Built by Edmund Nuttall, the bridge was designed by Halcrow, based in Wroughton, the firm which drew up the plans for the Second Severn Crossing.

John Prothero, contract manager at Edmund Nuttall, said: "The eques-trian bridge had to be extensively tested, so it would not wobble like the Millennium Bridge in London."

The design was then tested in huge wind tunnels in London, also used by McLaren's Formula One team.

"It passed with flying colours," Mr Prothero added.

Besides the cutting edge design, the £400,000 bridge is also helping raise money for charity.

Students, aged nine to 11, from all Swindon primary schools have been asked to design a fantasy bridge.

And the North Swindon Development Company has offered to donate £1 for every child who enters the competition.

All proceeds will be shared between the Evolution Appeal, which aims to equip Swindon's new hospital with state-of-the-art equipment, and GWR FM Community Trust.

Linda Knight, competition co-ordinator and teacher at Green-meadow Primary School, said: "We hope to raise £4,000.

"It is a brilliant opportunity for local children to be creative and support worthy local causes."

The deadline for entries is Monday, July 22, and the winner will be invited as a VIP guest to open the bridge.

Junction 7-8 of Northern Orbital Way will close for two hours on Sunday when the front sections of the bridge are put up. Geoff Davis, project manager at the North Swindon Development Company, which is responsible for the developing the Priory Vale area, said: "The front and back sections will be welded together.

"Then the cables will be installed over the next fortnight, ready to take the weight. It is one of the most exciting bridge designs in Wiltshire."

The bridge is expected to open in September, once all the painting and footpaths are completed.