Motorists have been urged not to ignore road closure signs after drivers were spotted shifting barriers on a "centuries old" bridge closed for repair.

South East Water has been working to fix a leak on the East Farleigh Bridge in Maidstone since January 16.

The rat-run route was shut to traffic as a result before temporarily reopening.

As reported on KentOnline earlier this week the closure was suspended due to railway works taking place, with the water company temporarily filling in a hole until engineers could return.

But drivers found themselves having to avoid a huge pothole close to six inches deep, filled with a pool of water and spanning half the width of the bridge.

Cones were placed to safely guide motorists and traffic was seen crawling over the obstruction.

South East Water has since reclosed using moveable barriers on the road with the pothole within the closure.

However, drivers have been spotted moving the barriers so they can get across.

South East Water regional network manager, Andy Beston, said: “We’re aware of drivers moving the road closure barriers in order to pass through.

"While we know road closures are disruptive, they are there to keep motorists and pedestrians safe and we urge drivers to follow the clearly-signed diversion route until the bridge can be safely opened again.

“In the meantime, we will instal extra preventative measures to deter people from moving the barriers out of the way.”

The water company had originally estimated the road's repair would be completed today but now say work will not resume until Monday.

Mr Beston added: “We are working closely with other parties to plan a quick and safe repair to the leak at East Farleigh Bridge.

“This particular bridge is centuries old and holds significant historical value so we want to ensure repair work is carried out sympathetically to avoid causing any structural damage.

“Our current plan is to begin works once a safe approach has been agreed upon."

The medieval bridge is used frequently by drivers heading from the north of Maidstone to Barming to avoid town centre traffic.

No date has been given for the bridge's reopening.

Drivers wishing to use the East Farleigh Bridge should instead use the Teston Bridge further down the road or drive through Maidstone town centre.