A VITAL link across the River Ouse near Selby was closed for seven hours for emergency repairs.

Bolts on the 19th century Cawood Bridge had become dislodged from their position and needed replacing.

The bolts help secure the bridge’s deck when it lies across the river and is not swung open to allow boats to pass through.

Engineers stressed the damage posed no risk to cars passing over the bridge, but could have affected the bridge itself.

The damage is believed to have been caused by natural wear and tear of the bridge, which was built in the 1830s. It is the only car crossing point over the River Ouse between the southern part of the A64 York Outer Ring Road and Selby Toll Bridge.

During its closure traffic travelling between York and Cawood, Church Fenton and Wistow was directed to Selby or Tadcaster.