Powick Old Bridge needs to be cleared of flood debris

Photos taken this week revealed piles of dead wood and branches choking up the River Teme near the Powick Old Bridge on the edge of Worcester.

BLOCKAGE: The debris on the River Teme. Left is the medieval Powick Bridge which was the site of the first skirmish of the English Civil War

The bridge was the site of the first skirmish of the English Civil War as tensions boiled over between King Charles I and Parliament in the mid 17th century.

For many, the bridge is an enduring symbol of the city's rich Civil War heritage during one of the bloodiest chapters in English and British history.

READ MORE: How we reported on the dead wood dam blocking Teme

A fisherman, who lives nearby, raised concerns that the build-up of debris was so bad that salmon could not get up the river to spawn with the problem getting steadily worse over the last five months.

PASSION: Paul Harding of Discover History organises tours of the battlefields of the English Civil War

However, as we approach the 380th anniversary of the Battle of Powick Bridge, there have also been concerns that the grade I listed bridge should look its best as the city marks the milestone.

Worcester played a pivotal role in the conflict between the 'Cavaliers' and the 'Roundheads', taking centre stage for the first skirmish of the war at Powick Bridge on September 23, 1642 and the last battle on September 3, 1651.

BIRTHDAY: The 380th anniversary of the Battle of Powick Bridge

Paul Harding, of Discover History, who organises Worcester walking tours of the city battlefields, is also concerned about any pressure the debris might exert on the stonework of the bridge.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency says the mess will be cleared up within weeks which was welcomed by those who wish to celebrate the anniversary.

TOURS: Walking tours bring people to Worcester's battlefields which were centre stage in English history Mr Harding said: "Powick Bridge is typical of most Medieval bridges in that it has many arches, which creates a narrow channel for the water to flow.

"This means debris can collect, especially during flood events.

"A large build-up, on a shallow river could divert the water into farmland or put great pressure on the stonework of this important bridge.

"It's excellent news that the Environment Agency are able to remove the debris over the next few weeks.

"This year marks the 380th Anniversary of the Battle of Powick Bridge, the first fight of the entire English Civil War.

"We have several groups booked onto our Battlefield Tours in both August and September. It's a tourist attraction in its own right and should look its best."