It was a close-run thing, but the Canal and River Trust (CRT) says normal service is back after repairs were made to a cracked bridge that is pivotal for Gloucester's transport – both on wheels and water.

Fears escalated during the run-up to repairs of the High Orchard Bridge, which carries St Ann Way over the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal, that completion of the work might be so late it would sink the city's latest Tall Ships Festival, which takes place this weekend (May 25-27).

With the bridge unable to be elevated to allow taller craft through from the north to Gloucester Docks, cracks were found at the base of a mast element during a routine inspection and a shutdown meant nothing taller than five meters could pass underneath.

Richard Wakelen, head of CRT's asset management, said: "The CRT sprang into action, working closely with contractors Kier to complete repairs in time for the popular event to go ahead."

The work to ensure the bridge operates for the event is completed now, although future work will be scheduled to improve the bridge cables and road surface.

Mr Wakelen added: "Our experienced engineers, alongside our contractors, have worked incredibly quickly to identify the problems with High Orchard Bridge and carry out the repairs as quickly and efficiently as possible. The Tall Ships Festival brings in thousands of visitors who come to see the ships and explore the Docks, and we knew we had to get the bridge fixed in time."

He added: "We're delighted that the bridge is now fully open and we're ready to welcome the ships for a fantastic festival. As a charity, urgent repairs like this come at a cost, and we have invested £250,000 in repairing the bridge so the Festival can go ahead."

The outlay comes at a time when the CRT is facing increasing challenges in its work though, Mr Wakelen added. "We welcome support - we urge locals and visitors alike to come and find us at the festival to find out about our work and how people can help make a difference."

● As part of its line-up, the Tall Ships Festival this weekend will see ships from Hollywood blockbusters such as Napoleon and the Pirates of the Caribbean sail into the city from as far as Spain, as part of the line-up. You can find out more about the CRT's volunteering opportunities across its 2,000-mile network, or make a donation, at canalrivertrust.org.uk.