ONE of Preston's most historic bridges is at the centre of a row following fears over children's safety.

The Health and Safety Executive and Preston council are being called in to investigate the old railway bridge that forms the boundary between Miller and Avenham parks (pictured).

The bridge, currently owned by Monumental Trust Ltd, can be reached from a steep set of steps from the Preston side of the park.

Once on top of the bridge overlooking the River Ribble, the only safety features are two widely separated bars to stop people falling

Ken Cole, Avenham councillor and soon-to-be executive member for housing on Preston Borough Council, has written to the Health and Safety Executive asking for something to be done before a child is hurt or killed.

"I have been pressing for action to make this bridge safe," explained councillor Cole.

"It is all too easy for children to climb on to the bridge and then fall sixty feet on to the pavement below. Only two widely separated bars are there to stop people falling. This is not enough.

"It will not take much to make this bridge safe. I hope that the owners can be made to make it safe before someone is maimed or even killed."

The Health and Safety Executive have inspected the bridge and is currently discussing the matter with Preston Borough Council and owners Monumental Trust Ltd.