A FLOOD-HIT bridge reopens to traffic next week.

Richmond's Mercury Bridge in North Yorkshire was a victim of the racing waters of the River Swale in June.

The central pier collapsed after a weekend of heavy rain and the risk of further damage was enough to persuade the county council to ban traffic from using it, severing a main route to the south.

A temporary steel structure was opened to allow cars and pedestrians to use the crossing in October.

But businesses in Richmond are still counting the cost in millions, with some worried that trade will never recover because shoppers have found alternatives, such as the new Tesco in Catterick Garrison.

However, County Hall has always insisted contractors would complete the £2m project as speedily as possible - despite further flooding in the autumn.

Yesterday, environmental services chief Mike Moore said: "The severe flooding in November affected our work schedule and raised doubts as to whether we would complete the reconstruction on time.

"However, I am delighted with the way the team responded, and a massive effort by everyone involved in the project meant that we have been able to meet our Christmas target.''

Traffic will be prevented from using the bridge between 7pm tomorrow and noon on Sunday, to allow time for resurfacing.

It will then re-open to all traffic on Thursday, for the first time in six months.