A DIGGER being transported on a lorry smashed into a railway bridge knocking out transport links in Canterbury.

The road at Wincheap was closed so the digger’s arm could be prised free from the bridge. Cars were diverted to other routes after the incident which happened at about 2.15pm on Monday.

Trains were also stopped from crossing the bridge until safety tests could be carried out.

Workman Richard Kilner, 33, who lives close to the scene, said: "I heard this noise so I came out to what had happened. It looks like a right mess.

"I’m sure it is going to cost a few bob to repair the digger and I feel sorry for all those people sitting on the train not going anywhere."

Damage to the machine could up to run up to £40,000. Its arm buckled upon impact and smashed the cab, spraying glass around it.