THE Army could be called in to help provide a temporary bridge into Eastham.

Harriett Baldwin MP, whose West Worcestershire constituency included Tenbury, wants to see if the Army can help by providing a temporary bridge.

It follows the collapse of Eastham Bridge and a meeting with villagers at which she was told that during World War Two there was a temporary pontoon style bridge.

Villagers have reported that a temporary Bailey bridge was sited just yards from the current river crossing during the Second World War and Harriett Bladwin has discussed potential solutions with the local army representatives.

Following a visit by Worcestershire County Council highways manager, John Hobbs, to the site, chief executive Clare Marchant has appointed a project manager to lead the county’s response to the incident.

“Having spoken to the villagers, it is clear that they want a short-term solution to minimise the impact of the bridge collapse on the village, while the county council investigates the collapse and decides on a long-term solution,” said Harriett Baldwin.

“Clearly the army doesn't just deploy without a strict protocol, which in this case puts the Worcestershire County Council in charge of requesting their help.

“The army and the council are now in touch and I will ask the county to see if the army can come and do a rapid recce of the situation."