QUICK-thinking residents helped to ensure a girl was brought to safety after concerns were raised for her welfare.

Police officers were called to a bridge in West Bergholt shortly after 4pm on Wednesday where the girl was found.

“Officers arrived within three minutes and, with the help of the members of the public, were able to make sure the girl was quickly brought to safety and was not harmed,” said an Essex Police spokesman.

“During the incident a number of drivers stopped at the scene and their help was invaluable. They played a significant part in helping the girl.”