WORK on a new footbridge linking two towns will begin this weekend.

The New Blacks Footbridge, from the Mickledales estate in Redcar to Marske, will cross the Darlington to Saltburn railway line.

On Saturday, after a year of planning, a 300-tonne mobile crane will lift the first of five steel spans into position as the structure starts to take shape.

The bridge will combine a cycleway and footpath and should be ready by September, providing a safe route for pupils travelling to Bydales School.

Ward councillor Garth Houchen said: "We have needed it for many years. It's just not safe to walk over the road bridge. It's too narrow."