Lorry damages Market Drayton Walkmill Bridge

Part of a bridge in a Shropshire town was ripped down by a lorry which failed to stop, police said today.

Extensive damage was caused to Walkmill Bridge in Market Drayton following the incident yesterday morning.

The old bridge spanning the River Tern leads to the Walkmill Industrial Estate, which can still be accessed via narrow lanes south of the town.

Police today appealed for witnesses to come forward by calling 0300 333 3000.

Richard Ewels, West Mercia Police spokesman, said the vehicle, possibly a large white lorry, drove over the bridge from the industrial estate towards town at about 11.15am.

He added: "The lorry has caught the bridge and knocked some of the wall down. It failed to stop and continued on its journey."

Constable Rachael Shirley, of Market Drayton police, is investigating the incident.

Mr Ewels added: "We want to hear from anyone who knows the identity of lorry, which may have suffered some damage resulting from the impact."

Engineers at Shropshire Council estimated the damage to be worth £30,000.