A SOUTHAMPTON bridge was closed this morning in both directions following a concern for welfare call. 

Police were alerted to a man on Itchen Bridge at 4.30am, forcing the bridge to be shut. 

The bus company, Bluestar, reported the closure affected the B*17 and 19 services, which were diverted via the Marine Parade, Belvidere Road, Britannia Road, Northam Bridge and Pear Tree Ave in both directions.

However, the bridge opened at 6.09am after police officers attended the scene and resolved the incident.

A spokesperson from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said they were called to "attend an incident this morning".

South Central Ambulance Service has been contacted for comment.