Hundreds of people in Horspath are sending letters petitioning the planning inspectorate against the demolition of a former railway bridge.

Villagers are fighting to save the bridge, across Cuddesdon Road, which they say is a natural traffic calming measure, preventing lorries from rat-running through Horspath.

An inspector has ruled the century-old bridge could be demolished without planning permission. But South Oxfordshire District Council has refused permission for abutments which support the bridge to be demolished and owners BRB Residuary Ltd have lodged an appeal.

Horspath Parish Council is calling for a public inquiry.

It sent a letter to residents saying: "We asked that the appeal recently lodged by BRB Residuary Ltd, should be determined by a public inquiry held in Horspath, so that all of us who live here, and would be affected by its demolition, can have their say."

Parish council vice chairman Martin Harris said more than 300 letters had been collected so far calling for a public inquiry. The council has sent the letters to the planning inspectorate.

Businessman Brian Kelly, who is in the process of buying the bridge from BRB Residuary, was behind the application for a Lawful Development Certificate, allowing the bridge to be demolished without permission.

He has rejected claims he wants to demolish it to make way for a housing development.

More than 500 cars per hour travel down Cuddesdon Road during peak times and residents fear the loss of the bridge could encourage more traffic and increase the risk of accidents.