A £78,000 scheme for a new footbridge and upgraded riverside walk needs further funding to bring it to fruition.

When the Lake District National Park (LDNP) asked for suggestions for paths which could be altered so people with limited mobility could use them, Staveley, Cumbria, villagers came up with a popular route along and over the River Kent. A £50,000 bid has been made to Big Lottery Community Spaces and a further £20,000 pledged for the first phase. However, a shortfall of around £8,000 has to be found for work which could begin as soon as September this year.

LDNP ranger, Sue Thompson, said there had been great enthusiasm from the village to establish a path and bridge that everyone could use, including people with baby buggies and wheelchairs. She added: "The project is part of our Miles without Stiles push to create better access across the national park.

"As the existing narrow bridge is coming to the end of its lifespan, people want to see a new bespoke structure which reflects the rich wood turning heritage of the village. An interesting 'Y' design is planned - bypassing but preserving the existing ancient stone stile - allowing access for all." Initial work will include installing a new bridge and surfacing the path. The second phase would include further footpath improvements and a new stone wall.

Thompson continued: "We are going to need about 260 tonnes of walling stone and would welcome any contributions. Obviously this is a big scheme, involving large amounts of money. "While we are very grateful to partners for their contributions, there is still a lot to find if we are going to achieve our goal and complete this much needed and worthwhile project."