ORNATE iron gates are once again standing proudly at the entrance of Middlesbrough’s historic Avenue of Trees after a seven-decade absence.

The original gates at the site, which leads from Acklam Road to Acklam Hall, were removed as part of the Second World War effort and replaced by low-lying gates and reduced size pillars.

However, thanks to a bequest from Acklam resident Alan Hunter to the Acklam 2020 community group, of which he was treasurer, new gates have been installed, having been designed using an old photograph uncovered by members of Acklam 2020.

The image, researched by Middlesbrough Council’s conservation officer, depicts the gate prior to the war effort, including a small Talbot hunting dog from the Hustler family crest. Work began last year and is now complete.