YOUR readers have already indicated (LET, January 15) that the mysterious bridge uncovered in Darwen is close to the Over Darwen Bridge that is clearly shown on the 1909 Ordnance Survey map.

After careful examination of the 1846 OS map, I can add some further information that they may appreciate.

According to the map, the Over Darwen Bridge is shown as the river passes under Bridge Street at the junction with Sudell Road.

The river then runs just east of Bridge Street, its course being just behind the present properties on the east side of Bridge Street.

The map also shows a sluice, almost on the site of the properties mentioned in your article, as well as a foot bridge.

This foot bridge seems to pass over a tributary that runs from St Peter's Church and joins the River Darwen almost on the site where the present properties stand.

There is also a plan in Bolton Library, dated May 27, 1774, that shows the river running behind the property on what is now the east side of Bridge Street.

Immediately after crossing to the east side of the street, the river broadens out and clearly runs underneath where the present property stands.

GEORGE ANTHONY FOSTER, Bury.

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