A LARGE-scale model of an iconic Darlington export has been restored to its former glory by a team of apprentices.

A four-metre model of the Severn Bridge had been displayed on the town centre’s roundabout at Freeman’s Place before the inner ring road system was overhauled in 2014.

The Cleveland Bridge UK Ltd design was returned to the Yarm Road-based facility with the company deciding to repair the model and install it outside the main entrance of the factory.

Twenty-one apprentices training at Cleveland Bridge were tasked with restoring the scale replica of the Severn Bridge that was upgraded by the Darlington company in the 1970s to link South Gloucester and Monmouthshire in south Wales.

Chris Droogan, managing director of Cleveland Bridge UK Ltd, said: “The apprentices have done an excellent job with the renovation of the Severn Bridge model, which demonstrates the skills they are gaining on our training programmes.

“It has taken pride of place at the entrance to our factory highlighting the iconic structures the company has worked on.”