An event that invited hundreds of people to cross the newly completed Dyfi Bridge on foot for the first time was hailed as a “huge success” by its organisers.

On Saturday, January 13, a 5km fun run that saw 120 people running and 550 walkers became some of the first people to cross the new Dyfi Bridge in Machynlleth, as the £46 million project nears completion after several years of development.

The runners and walkers were crossing the bridge as part of an event organised by Bro Ddyfi Appeal Committee for the Urdd Eisteddfod Maldwyn 2024 and Machynlleth Rotary Club.

The run began at 10am, giving people the chance to run across the new bridge before it opens to traffic in February, as over 200 runners crossed the 725m long viaduct across the Afon Dyfi.

Roger Seagrave, Machynlleth Rotary Club Secretary, said: “I am pleased to be able to confirm that the event was an outstanding success, attracting over 120 runners and 550 walkers who had registered in advance to ensure their place, whilst still more arrived on the day.

“The event was held in good weather giving the participants stunning views of the Dyfi valley and the chance to exercise in a traffic free environment followed by hot soup and a roll in the warmth of The White Lion Hotel.

“The proceeds of around £5000 will be split between the Rotary Club of Machynlleth and the Bro Ddyfi Appeal for the Maldwyn Urdd Eisteddford.”

OTHER NEWS:

Pupils from a nearby primary school were also among the first people to walk across the newly completed Dyfi Bridge as part of a special tour of the structure.

On January 17, students from Bro Hyddgen Primary School became the first children to walk across the brand new Dyfi Bridge.

The company responsible for the bridge’s construction, Griffiths Ltd, said via social media: “Exciting moment for pupils from Bro Hyddgen Primary School as they are proudly the first children to walk across the brand-new Dyfi Bridge.

“Ahead of its official opening, we are thrilled to share these special moments of the young explorers taking the inaugural walk, an exciting moment for the community.”

The new Dyfi Bridge is scheduled to open to traffic and the public on February 2, ahead of a planned road closure along the A493 in front of Dyfi Cottages.