DARTFORD bridge is closed while repairs are underway to a platform with a swinging cable.

The QEII Bridge was shut after it was discovered a piece of cable from the platform used to access the columns when they need painting came lose in the high winds at 3.30pm on Tuesday afternoon.

There was no danger to drivers but Le Crossing staff closed first lane three and four and then the whole bridge to stop the scene distracting drivers.

Engineers have been called in to carry out repairs.

A Highways Agency spokesman said: "There is no risk of the platform falling and there is a support mechanism keeping it in place. There is a cable moving side to side."

Rush hour commuters are being diverted to the Dartford tunnel.

It is hoped the repairs will be complete and the bridge re-opened by the start of the Wednesday morning rush hour.