OTTERY residents have one last chance to help name a �1 million cycleway and footbridge and win the right to be the first person to officially cross it.

The 95-metre structure was lowered into place near the Land of Canaan last week.

Driving forces hope the bridge will be completed and opened by the end of July or beginning of August.

The Community Steering Group behind the bid is planning a grand opening ceremony event to be held on August’s Bank Holiday Monday (August 29).

Students at The King’s School have suggested names for the bridge and residents have been asked to vote for their favourite.

Those who vote for the winning title will have their names placed into a draw and could win the right to be the first person to walk, or cycle, over the bridge.

The deadline for votes is Monday (July 25).

“After 15 years, we’re very pleased - it’s going to be a much safer route,” said mayor Glyn Dobson.

“I hope as many people as possible come to the official opening. It will be a big day in Ottery.”

The long-awaited scheme will provide a safe route for students at The King’s School, and residents who frequently travel on foot or by bike from the town centre to the Thorne Farm Estate area.

The scheme has been funded by contributions from district, county and town councils, as well as the Environment Agency and Big Lottery funded national cycle network charity Sustrans.

Lifting the bridge’s two sections into place took three days.

“It will create an impressive piece of engineering across the river,” said an East Devon District Council spokesman.

“More importantly it will provide a safe route for The King’s School students to take every day, so avoiding the busy St Saviour’s Bridge route.”