Amy GrayThe Somerleyton swing bridge was yesterday being operated by a temporary winch after a mechanical fault.Amy Gray

The Somerleyton swing bridge was yesterday being operated by a temporary winch after a mechanical fault.

Last Wednesday, a test swing showed a fault in the central pivot mechanism and the bridge was shut down to limit further damage and allow Network Rail to investigate.

Engineers have continued to work at the site since then and a temporary winch is in place to allow boats through, although the process takes longer than usual and is not offered as frequently.

A spokesman for Network Rail said it was a short-term solution while engineers decided what the best long-term fix was and train timetables were unlikely to be affected.

'We've brought in a temporary winch system that jacks the bridge up,' said the spokesman.

'It's far from ideal but better than not being able to offer any access at all.'

In May this year, the swing bridge was jammed shut due to another damaged pivot mechanism and fixed-mast boats on the River Waveney were unable to pass underneath it.

A specially-made replacement piece was installed on the 100-year old bridge and it reopened earlier this month.