East Kent Railway Trust has announced the arrival of Gravesend Bridge at its Shepherdswell station, where it will be restored and reconstructed for visitors.

The 105-ft roofed lattice footbridge, donated by Network Rail, was added to Gravesend Station as part of a modernisation in 1904, but removed as part of a multimillion-pound upgrade in December.

Prior to the bridge being dismantled, Network Rail decided to donate it to a Heritage Railway, and East Kent Railway Trust were delighted to accept the offer.

Apprenticeship liaiseon officer Gary Cox, of Wilson Avenue, Deal, said: “The preservation of our railway infrastructure is important to us and to be asked to join this project to restore and rebuild this bridge at Shepherdswell was an honour.”

The bridge was dismantled on December 1, and stored until March 18, when it made its journey to Shepherdswell.

Mr Cox added: “There is much more to this than the preservation of the bridge.

“It will enhance our visitors experience at our Mining Railway Heritage site, by providing access from our platform area to the wonderful Knees Woodlands Area that is being lovingly restored and developed by our Woodland Rangers.

“It will also help to sustain our apprenticeship scheme and give our apprentices some valuable experience at the same time. Helping to re-construct this bridge will be a unique addition to their CV.”

East Kent Railway Trust is looking for volunteers to help with the project. Those interested should contact Gary Cox on 07800545135 or email garyekr@sky.com