TRAFFIC on a major road was brought to a standstill as emergency workers attempted to talk a woman down from a bridge.
Huge tailbacks ensued after the A12 was halted in both directions on Friday evening as the person involved dangled over the Colchester Road bridge.
Concerns had been raised about the wellbeing of the person after she was spotted on the wrong side of the barrier on the structure which connects Braiswick and West Bergholt at about 5.40pm.
One eyewitness held in the traffic told the Gazette she saw two ambulances and four police cars at the scene as discussions to bring the woman to safety were held.
An Essex Police spokesman said the woman involved was brought to safety and left in the care of paramedics.
“We were called to the blue bridge on the A12 at about 5.40pm on Friday following concerns for the safety of a woman on the wrong side of the barrier,” she said.
“Officers arrived within minutes and the woman was brought to safety to receive care from paramedics.”
Lexden and Braiswick councillor Lewis Barber thanked emergency services who had attended the scene.
He said: “It is distressing hearing of these incidents and I am grateful to the emergency services for their work to help protect and save lives, as well as members of the public who intervened.
“I will be liaising with the relevant authorities to discuss how we can help put in preventative measures in this area.
“Ultimately, however, we also need to ensure adequate provision is in place to tackle mental health and I am pleased Essex County Council and the NHS are working with partners to improve local services.
“If you are struggling please ask for support, including from the Samaritans.”
Friday’s incident follows a similar event earlier this month when 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 near West Bergholt, understood to be the same structure, shortly after 4pm where the girl was found.
The East of England Ambulance Service has been contacted for comment.
Anyone needing help from the Samaritans can call 116 123 free from any phone or 0330 094 5717 in which local call charges apply.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here