STUCK BRIDGE BROUGHT ECCLES TO A HALT (ALMOST)

The historic Grade II listed swing bridge which forms part of a main arterial route between Salford and Trafford, suffered a hydraulic breakdown as oil leaked from pipes causing it to be unable to swing back into the closed position.

Roads around the area quickly got clogged up even with diversions put in place, motorists were forced to find alternative routes around to the other side of the water.

Fortunately both pedestrians and cyclists were still allowed to cross.

Centenary Bridge further up the canal remained operational and able to take the extra traffic, as did the motorway flyover bridge which was suffering its own traffic flow problems due to the ongoing 'smart' motorway works.

By 12:30 pm the bridge which spans 59.3 metres (195 ft) was confirmed to be repaired and allowing traffic to cross again.

But not before Eccles master of the photographic arts Dag Pagan managed to grab his camera and real off a few photos of it all.

All photos supplied and given permission to use by Dag Pagan, many thanks.