AN ancient bridge battered by raging flood water is holding fast after a partial collapse created an 'open wound' in the body of the beloved landmark.

Powick Old Bridge showed no evidence of further damage after flood waters from the swollen River Teme submerged even the archways of the structure at the weekend.

Worcester News: BELOVED: Powick Old Bridge is part of Worcester's rich history and she is holding firm despite the wound in her side BELOVED: Powick Old Bridge is part of Worcester's rich history and she is holding firm despite the wound in her side (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

However, the flood waters have yet to subside and it will be impossible to see the full impact of recent high water until the river recedes. This will reveal what has been happening beneath the water, particularly in the section of structure which suffered the partial collapse late last month and remains the focus of concern.

Before the river rose, a large section of soil was visible and this remains hidden by the murky water, making it difficult to gauge the extent of any subsequent damage.

Worcester News: FLASHBACK: Powick Old Bridge shortly after the partial collapse with the focus of interest falling on a section of soil which has since been exposed to high water from the swollen River Teme FLASHBACK: Powick Old Bridge shortly after the partial collapse with the focus of interest falling on a section of soil which has since been exposed to high water from the swollen River Teme (Image: Newsquest)

The plight of the imperilled bridge has drawn concern from across the historical and heritage community including the Battle of Worcester Society, Worcester Civic Society and the Royal Stuart Society because of the bridge's links to the English Civil War, part of the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. 

Paul Harding of Discover History, who has viewed the most recent photos taken, was optimistic that the bridge may well be able to weather the deluge.

Mr Harding said: "Looking at the bridge in that water level, I'm impressed. It looks the same as before. Medieval builders knew what they were doing.

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"Let's hope that below the waterline, she's still holding up well. I think with the short periods between flood events, the debris build-up is looking less across the entire river system.

"We need some lower water levels to allow work to start. Having high water levels will delay any work. It has to be safe for work to be carried out."

The bridge is treasured by historians and historical enthusiasts not just because of its medieval origins but because it was the scene of the Battle of Powick Bridge on September 23, 1642, the opening skirmish of the English Civil War.

Worcester was also the site of the Civil War's last battle (the Battle of Worcester on September 3, 1651) and the bridge is a surviving reminder of Worcestershire's integral part in the story of this bloody episode in British history. 

According to Historic England, the bridge was constructed before 1447 and was partially rebuilt during the 17th century. It is constructed from stone with brick and is approximately 60m long and up to 7m wide.

The bridge has a brick parapet approximately 1m high with chamfered stone coping except on the west where it is interrupted by a road.

The Grade I listed Powick Old Bridge in Worcester will remain closed to pedestrians and cyclists for the foreseeable future for safety reasons.

This is whilst investigations into the collapse and repair options continue.

Initial investigations show that part of the supporting wingwall collapsed into the River Teme, resulting in loss of material and support for the main bridge section.

The collapse of the bridge, which is also recognised as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, was likely caused by recent flooding and a buildup of debris.