THE Runcorn Widnes bridge was closed for 18 hours after a man climbed up on to the steel structure.
Emergency services were called at 11.49am yesterday, Sunday, as a man scaled the bridge and sat on one of the arches on the Runcorn side.
A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “Specialist officers and staff from partner agencies worked hard to bring the incident to a safe conclusion at the earliest opportunity.
Police, paramedics, fire fighters and specialists remained at the bridge all night.
It only re-opened at 5.30am this morning when the man came down.
Local roads were gridlocked as motorists faced long diversions through Warrington.
Buses were re-routed.
Inspector Adam Waller said: "Cheshire Police would like to thank those affected for their patience.
"The bridge had to be closed for the safety of the public and all those involved."
A 47-year-old man has been detained under the Mental Heath Act.
How did the bridge closure affect you?
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