Repair work is to commence at Yeoford Bridge in Penstone.

Train services between Crediton and Okehampton, and Crediton and Barnstaple, will be replaced by buses from 19 to 27 February, while Network Rail completes the repairs.

Network Rail needs to make critical repairs to help maintain and improve the reliability of the bridge and stretch of railway, which carries passenger services on the Dartmoor Line to Okehampton and on the Tarka Line to Barnstaple.

Network Rail\s engineers will be working to make a wide range of repairs including to the steelwork and brickwork, renewing parts of the track, grit blasting and painting, water proofing, and drainage. Fencing will also be installed above the bridge for the safety of both passengers and local residents.

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As a result of the engineering work continuing under the bridge, the road will be also closed from 7 February until 4 March with a diversionary route in place.

Train services will continue to run between Exeter Central and Crediton however a rail replacement bus service will be in operation from Crediton to Okehampton, Barnstaple and Yeoford.

George Bartlett, Network Rail scheme project manager, said: "The repairs we are making to Yeoford bridge are really critical to ensure this well used bridge continues to safely carry passenger services on the Dartmoor and Tarka lines.

"Our engineers will be working tirelessly to complete a large number of improvements and we’re grateful to both passengers and local residents for their patience and understanding while we complete this work."