ONE of the oldest bridges in Britain – at Bradford-on-Tone – has been badly damaged.

Now police are involved in trying to find who was responsible.

Parish council clerk Derrick Bott told the WWN: “This 14th Century Grade 2 listed bridge and ancient monument has again been seriously damaged, with part of the parapet wall being pushed into the river.

“The culprit must be aware that they caused this and their vehicle/trailer will also have been damaged.

“The incident involving the bridge is believed to have occurred at around 8pm on Tuesday, October 17. Weight and width restriction orders on the bridge are being ignored.

“Bradford-on-Tone Parish Council and Somerset County Council’s bridge engineer would welcome the public’s co-operation by recording details, and if possible taking photographs, of any vehicles that cause damage to the bridge.

“A number of local businesses have legal dispensations and are exempted from the Traffic Regulation Orders, but consideration is being given to the possibility of the exemptions being withdrawn if the person causing the recent damage is not identified or further damage is caused to the bridge.

“The parish council will discuss the possibilities for enforcement of the restrictions at its November 15 meeting.

“If you have any information about this incident contact the clerk to Bradford-on-Tone Parish Council. Any assistance would be much appreciated."