Iconic bridge 'protected by law'

The bridge was built by Abraham Darby in 1779

A council has protected its ownership of the world's first iron bridge.

Telford and Wrekin Council has registered its ownership of the 229-year-old bridge at Ironbridge Gorge with the Land Registry.

Land Registry's Martin Kirkby said the move removed any possible doubt about the World Heritage site's ownership and meant it was "protected in law".

Mayor of Telford and Wrekin Bob Groom said the council would look after the historic bridge for future generations.

He said it would work closely with English Heritage, the guardians of the bridge, "to secure the long-term future of this iconic structure".