Lowestoft's bascule bridge is to closed tonight after it failed this morning.

The bridge could not be lowered from the raised position after peak traffic time at about 9.50am this morning.

One of the bolts which holds the bridge in the vertical position had jammed, which could have exacerbated by the cold weather.

The bridge remained closed to traffic while investigations were carried out into the problem. It was reopened at noon.

An emergency closure of the bridge will take place tonight between 8pm and 6am so the problem canbe thoroughly investigated after the peak traffic period this afternoon.

The Highways Agency is now working with Associated British Ports to resolve the problem as quickly as possible and apologises for any inconvenience caused to motorists.

Advanced signing and a signed diversion route will be in place during the works. All restrictions will be removed outside working times.