Police crash caused by 'loose' laptop

A crash involving a police car on a Grade II listed bridge was caused by a loose work laptop, according to West Mercia Police.

The incident in Worcester happened shortly before 20:00 GMT on 3 March after officers had been responding to an emergency incident.

A force spokesperson said the crash occurred when the equipment became "lodged in the steering column".

They added the driver "lost ability to steer the vehicle" which "resulted in a low-speed collision with the wall".

The matter has since been reviewed by the force's Professional Standards Department, and no misconduct was identified.

However, both driver and passenger are to receive "reflective practice" from the driving training team.

The force said it had engaged with Worcestershire County Council to ensure the repairs were completed.

A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council it was working to "determine the best approach for repairing the damaged parapet".

They added: "The bridge remains safe to use, and both the carriageway and footway were reopened shortly after the incident.

"We are currently assessing the condition and availability of suitable replacement stone and are exploring options for recovering any original materials when river levels permit."

The spokesperson said these assessments were expected to take "several weeks".

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.