Clapper Bridge at SX3518165252

A C16 multi-span bridge over the River Lynher, possibly incorporating the earlier medieval clapper bridge on the site, and partly rebuilt, possibly in the C19.

MATERIALS: stone rubble and moorstone.

PLAN: constructed on a north-east/ south-west orientation across the River Lynher. Elements of the original clapper bridge structure, built from large slabs of stone, may still be contained within and below the structure of the present multi-span bridge.

DESCRIPTION: the bridge has three round arches of 2m and 3m span with dressed stone and granite voussoirs with granite keystones. A string-course highlights the line, called the impost, where each arch springs from the piers and abutments. The imposts and structure below may date to the earlier clapper bridge. The cutwaters between, partly of granite, continued up to form angled refuges on the north-west side. The cutwaters on south-east side are partly replaced with buttresses. There is a fourth span of possible C19 date at the south end, with a granite lintel. The stone rubble parapets have chamfered granite copings with iron cramps, and are splayed over the abutments. A C19 iron plaque to each parapet reads COUNTY OF CORNWALL/ TAKE NOTICE THAT THIS BRIDGE (WHICH/ IS A COUNTY BRIDGE) IS INSUFFICIENT TO/ CARRY WEIGHTS BEYOND THE ORDINARY TRAFFIC/ OF THE DISTRICT AND THAT THE OWNERS/ DRIVERS AND PERSONS IN CHARGE OF/ LOCOMOTIVES ARE WARNED AGAINST/ ATTEMPTING THE PASSAGE OF THE BRIDGE/ WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF THE COUNTY SURVEYOR/ BY ORDER OF THE COUNTY JUSTICES/ SILVANUS W JENKIN/ SURVEYOR.