CLAPPER BRIDGE near ASHOVER

This ancient form of bridge near Ashover known as a clapper bridge is formed by large flat slabs of stone supported on stone piers.

Although often believed to be of prehistoric origin, most were erected in medieval times, and some in later centuries.They are often situated close to a ford where carts could cross.

The word 'clapper' derives from an Anglo-Saxon word, cleaca, meaning 'bridging the stepping stones'.