SCHOOL children on a bus were on a bridge seconds before it collapsed.

Two school transport mini-buses carrying children from Lindridge St Lawrence School attempted to cross Eastham Bridge around 3.30pm yesterday afternoon before it began to collapse.

Head teacher Julie Page said: "According to the account given by the drivers and children, as the first bus drove onto the bridge, they noticed masonry crumbling and falling from the side of the bridge and they described hearing a loud ‘bang’.

"The buses quickly reversed off the bridge and then watched as the bridge collapsed into the River Teme below.

"The children were all returned safely to school where the drivers very efficiently arranged to take them home via an alternative route whilst we sent out an emergency message to inform parents.

"We are very grateful for the quick thinking of the bus drivers concerned and thank God that our children were unharmed."

There were six children on the first bus and three on the second bus.

No-one was hurt.

The driver of the bus, Derek Trow, 62, reveresed the first bus followed by Julie Carpenter in the second.

Mr Trow, a grandfather and father-of-two from Bewdley, was yesterday described by Steve Mole, partner in Holland Coaches, as an experienced driver who had been in the role for 20 years.

Mr Mole said: "He noticed some bricks missing. He entered the bridge and it literally collapsed in front of him. He reversed to get off.

"He took it all in his stride to be honest. The driver in the bus behind was more concerned. 

"Three or four seconds later he would not have been able to do anything about it. He's very lucky."

Mr Mole said Mr Trow would not see himself as a hero, just that it was his job to get the children home.

A Historic England spokesperson said: “This late 18th century bridge is Grade II listed and is therefore nationally important.

"We are in touch with Worcestershire County Council who are responsible for the bridge and we will help them if they need any assistance.”

Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, commented: “Obviously my principal reaction is relief that no one was hurt and I am keen to express my gratitude to the emergency services who attended promptly to manage the incident.

“This will clearly have an impact on local road-users and I am awaiting a full report from the county council highways department on both the causes of the collapse, what measures we can take to reduce its long-term effect and how we repair the situation as quickly as possible.

"Tenbury will remain open for business but we must do all we can to help any local people or businesses who may be impacted.”