HERITAGE champions have described their sorrow when part of a historic bridge, the scene of the first skirmish of a bloody civil war, collapsed without warning.

Powick Old Bridge, famous as the scene of the first skirmish of the English Civil War in 1642, is now closed to pedestrians and cyclists after part of the structure tumbled into the River Teme below.

Worcester News: DAMAGE: This photo, courtesy of Dave Harford Photography, shows the extent of the damage to Powick Old Bridge DAMAGE: This photo, courtesy of Dave Harford Photography, shows the extent of the damage to Powick Old Bridge (Image: Dave Harford Photography)

A series of storms achieved what the thunder of hooves and muskets from cavaliers and Parliamentarian dragoons could not, the partial destruction of the medieval bridge, as shown in these dramatic drone photos from Dave Harford Photography. 

The grade I listed bridge over the River Teme dates back to the 16th century (with later restorations) and was the site of the battle of Powick Bridge, a skirmish fought on September 23, 1642.

Worcester News: COLLAPSE: This image by Dave Harford Photography shows an up close view of the debris from the partial collapse of Powick Old Bridge COLLAPSE: This image by Dave Harford Photography shows an up close view of the debris from the partial collapse of Powick Old Bridge (Image: Dave Harford Photography)

This was the first engagement between elements of the principal field armies of the Royalists and Parliamentarians and cements Worcester's claim to be the premier Civil War city in England - the centre stage of the conflict as the site of both its beginning and end.

Worcester is also known as the site of the last battle of the English Civil War, the Battle of Worcester on September 3, 1651 which saw Charles II flee for his life after a Cromwellian victory.

Worcester News: CLOSED: The view over the now closed Powick Old Bridge CLOSED: The view over the now closed Powick Old Bridge (Image: Supplied)

Cllr Alan Amos, who represents Bedwardine for the county council, said: "This is a major tragedy.

"It is a much-loved and very historical landmark and a central feature of the local community.

"As the local county councillor, I am already leading the campaign and pressing the county council very hard to get the bridge repaired and reopened as soon as is possible. I won’t rest until it is."

Worcester News: PASSION: Paul Harding of Discover History has been a passionate advocate of Worcester's rich Civil War history and is pictured here at Powick Old Bridge (on the left)PASSION: Paul Harding of Discover History has been a passionate advocate of Worcester's rich Civil War history and is pictured here at Powick Old Bridge (on the left) (Image: Supplied)

Daniel Daniels, Chairman of the Battle of Worcester Society said: “We extend our regrets for the unfortunate damage to Powick Bridge, apparently caused by the recent storms.

"The disclosure that a portion of its foundation has been washed away highlights the pressing need for immediate repairs to safeguard the structural integrity and historical significance of this iconic bridge. 

Worcester News: HERITAGE: Daniel Daniels, chairman of the Battle of Worcester Society, is a champion of Worcester's status as a Civil War city and Powick Old Bridge plays an integral part in that story HERITAGE: Daniel Daniels, chairman of the Battle of Worcester Society, is a champion of Worcester's status as a Civil War city and Powick Old Bridge plays an integral part in that story (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

“Powick Bridge holds immense historical importance for Worcester, serving as the site of the opening salvo during the English Civil War (or war of the three kingdoms). The Battle of Powick Bridge was fought on 23rd September, 1642, and was the first clash between royalists and parliamentarians. With forces of around 1,000 mounted troops on each side, Prince Rupert’s royalists emerged victorious, solidifying his personal reputation for a time. 

RECOMMENDED READING: Old Powick Bridge closed to undergo repairs after collapse

RECOMMENDED READING: Powick Old Bridge - boat and tractor clear River Teme

“Whilst safety is of course paramount, we hope for swift and comprehensive repairs to restore this landmark. The significance of Powick Bridge goes beyond its architectural value, symbolising a crucial chapter in Worcester’s rich history."

Worcester News: FLASHBACK: This photo from August 2022, taken by the Environment Agency, shows the build up of driftwood and other debris at Powick Old Bridge FLASHBACK: This photo from August 2022, taken by the Environment Agency, shows the build up of driftwood and other debris at Powick Old Bridge (Image: Barry Killner (Environment Agency) via Twitter @BarryKillnerEA)

Paul Harding of Discover History has conducted many battlefield tours, shedding light on this particularly brutal episode in the county's and city's history.

He said: "Powick Bridge is both locally and nationally important.

"It has stood since the Medieval period and was fought over twice, marking the first and last clash of arms of the English Civil Wars.

"It witnessed famous names such as Prince Rupert in 1642 and in 1651, the Scottish Commander, Sir William Keith, who went on to dismantle part of the bridge to slow Cromwell's advance on the City of Worcester.

"The inevitable has happened sadly, and it would be pointless looking for a person to blame. The river Teme is narrow, and a huge amount of detritus from along the river gets blocked below the narrow arches of the bridge.

"The sheer pressure of so much water and weight pressing against the pillars actually shows how strong these bridges are. We have seen similar happen elsewhere and look forward to the day it is repaired. My only worry is if we see another flood before any repairs are made.

"We take many people to the bridge on our battlefield tours, and hundreds of people love the bridge that was so heavily involved in history. Our tours will still take place, but we will follow the advice and stay off the bridge. We will watch what happens next very closely."