West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has today offered her support to Eastham villagers after the ancient bridge collapsed into the river Teme. Harriett attended a meeting at the collapsed bridge to answer questions from more than 100 local villagers and to offer her support as Worcestershire County Council's transport department identifies both short and long term solutions. Harriett discussed the issue with a Transport Minister last night (May 26) and she has asked for the council to carry out a full investigation into the incident. The bridge, which was built more than 200 years ago for horse and cart traffic, is in a protected area and is a grade II listed structure. The MP was keen to thank local emergency services and praised the bus driver who spotted the issues on the bridge and averted a major incident. Harriett will explore every option to find a rapid solution to the situation. Harriett commented: "First and foremost my reaction is relief that the bus driver managed to avert a major incident and I am grateful for the efforts of the emergency services who acted so promptly and efficiently. "The bridge is used by parents taking children to school, commuters, local businesses and farmers and is a vital lifeline for the community. "It is clear that a long-term solution could be some way away and in the interim we need to explore all shorter term solutions. "The county council is also looking at viable temporary solutions and we will report back to the local community as soon as possible. "I have offered my support to anyone who needs it to bring solutions to the table and I will work with community leaders to keep everybody in the loop in the coming weeks."