WORK to repair Wool’s Grade II-listed bridge is nearing completion.

The structure, which crosses the River Frome, partially collapsed in January, and it was closed for repairs.

According to East Stoke and Wool parish councils, the county council will be starting the process of removing the compound and equipment stores from the site soon.

The final stage of the work is to resurface the bridge, which means it will be closed between 9am and 4pm on Monday, December 5.

East Stoke’s clerk Liz Maidment said: “On behalf of both Parish Councils we would like to thank the project team for doing a marvellous job - ewe been great!”

Historic Wool Bridge features in Thomas Hardy novel Tess of the D’Urbervilles. According to Historic England, it is the best-preserved Elizabethan bridge in Dorset.

A reinforced concrete retaining wall has been installed to stop future erosion and help support the bridge.

While the original stonework has been put back in place, new stone additions to the bridge were supplied, cut and tooled by W. J. Haysom & Son and Lander’s Quarries in Langton Matravers to ensure a 'sympathetic restoration'.

The original lime mortar was also chemically analysed, so it could be accurately replicated.