Hundreds of youngsters affected by traffic congestion were invited to become the first children to cross a new relief road bridge.

More than 270 Bolnore Village Primary School pupils were given a sneak peak of the Haywards Heath Relief Road built over the railway line at Rocky Lane on Friday.

The bridge forms part of a new relief road being built in the town to deal with heavy traffic problems.

Organiser of the trip Janet Knight said: “Bolnore has been probably the school most affected by road closures and traffic movement in the town so we thought it would be nice for them to take a look at the bridge and cross it first.

“It was fantastic for them. Some of the children drew us wonderful pictures and brought them back to us as presents. Their imaginations were amazing.

“Another group sang a song which was great too.

“The official opening of the new bridge will be in September but we anticipate it will be in operation from Monday, July 28.”