Work to stabilise Sturminster Newton river bank completed

"Essential" work to stabilise a Dorset river bank has been completed by a council.

The bank of the River Stour in Sturminster Newton, which borders the A357, had been gradually slipping into the water.

Dorset Council carried out works to stop any further movement, and protect the busy road nearby.

A drilling method was used to complete the works, with a pre-existing path also being reinstalled.

Around 500 nails, between 8m and 12m long, were drilled through the bank to secure it to the bedrock to stabilise the embankment.

Steel mesh was pinned in place, followed by protective matting and finally wildflower seeds were sown.

Councillor Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, thanked local residents, motorists and Sturminster Newton town council for their "positive support and understanding" throughout the "essential" works.

He also praised the team working on the project: "They have done a fantastic job that has created a safer place for all."

Councillor Carole Jones, ward member for Sturminster Newton, added: "The workforce on site have been fantastic - many a morning they were there from 7.30am, not leaving until almost dark."

She also thanked the towns residents for their patience, adding "we got there".

Follow BBC South on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to south.newsonline@bbc.co.uk.