The good folk of Twickenham have reacted to rival proposals to build a bridge or introduce a ferry crossing linking Radnor Gardens with Ham.

Architect Richard Woolf has long harboured ambitions to build a "majestic bridge" for cyclists and pedestrians across the Thames, close to Radnor House School.

But chairman of Friends of Radnor Gardens and South Twickenham Councillor Clare Head claimed a bridge would be "intrusive" and is instead championing a "modest pontoon".

The question sparked fierce of debate among Twickenham residents, with people considering the merits of both proposed schemes.

Paul Luton, cycling charity CTC representative for Richmond, said the suggested site was too close to an existing bridge at Teddington Lock.

He said: "The Ham bank here has a rough track that floods periodically and is a fair way from any connecting route whilst the Twickenham side is on a busy road with only a narrow part-time cycle lane.

"A bridge further downstream could connect to Ham Street from the quiet Twickenham riverside road."

But Leona McGuinness was more forthright in her opinion that a bridge would be a positive addition to the town.

She said: "Yes I do think it's a good idea, why not?

"It creates easier access to the borough's different areas for all.

"What is hilarious is that Strawberry Hill residents can't bear the thought of Ham people coming over to their neck of the woods.

"Heavens above, people from Ham estate could even come - that is the sole reason that these snobby people are opposed to this although they will never admit it."

That was a view shared by Rosalyn Twite, who lives on the Ham side of the Thames.

She said: "Perhaps they should one day venture over and discover the beautiful areas we have and the hard working, decent people who populate Ham and Petersham. "It seems to me a bridge is a good idea if only to break through the prejudices which appear to be harboured in this matter."

Rik Williams said he would prefer to retain the status quo and not opt for either of the proposals.

He added: "The site is small and any interference would unbalance the already delicate ecology."

The debate continues to rage with Coun Head claiming her ferry plan would cost a mere £60,000 compared to the £20m required to build the bridge, spanning 100m of river.