CONCERNS for the welfare of a man on the bridge over the Bewdley Bypass led to a search of the river between Bewdley and Stourport.

The man was seen last night by several passers-by after he had partly climbed over the bridge barrier just before 7pm and there were fears he might have gone into the river.

There was no trace of him when officers arrived, at which point the police helicopter was brought into help search.

Police were assisted by Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, which launched two boats and fire officers spoke to river users including anglers and rowers.

West Midlands Ambulance Service personnel also attended, including members of the Hazardous Area Response Team who were equipped to enter the water to carry out a rescue if necessary.

Police sgt Dave Hind said: “Although the man was not seen to enter the water, when officers arrived on scene and couldn’t locate him, we had to assume he could have gone in.

“A full search operation was undertaken by all emergency services personnel, which lasted about two hours but nothing was found.

“We would still like to identify this man and would urge him to contact us at Kidderminster Police Station so we can check on his welfare.”

To contact police call 101, quoting incident 595-S-010514.