Workers are carrying out repairs on a well-used bridge ahead of tomorrow's Wigan Athletic vs Bolton Wanderers match

Walmsley bridge, which goes over the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, has been shut on match days since New Year’s Day.

Wigan Council said there were “concerns about the structural safety of the bridge when at full capacity”.

The closure of the popular route from Springfield left fans facing a long walk to the stadium or getting in their cars, while businesses also felt the impact.

But on Wednesday, the council and Wigan Athletic announced a specialist contractor had been appointed to do urgent work on the bridge.

Workers arrived at the site on Friday morning and it is hoped the bridge will remain open during tomorrow’s derby match between Latics and Bolton Wanderers.