A BRIDGE spanning Eller beck off Bridge Street in Skipton collapsed today sending two parked cars plunging into the river. Two vans - believed to belong to Coffee Care - were left hanging over the void.

Stone retaining walls have collapsed scattering rubble into the beck which runs under the buildings, formerly Skipton fire station, before it flows towards Fisher Surgery.

Martyn Hughes, Skipton fire services joint watch manager has tweeted: "In 13 years of service this must go down as a first."

Fire crews from Skipton and Grassington are attending the scene which has been cordoned off. Police are also present.

A Craven Council spokesperson, said: "We are aware of an incident off Bridge Street, adjacent to Coach Street car park, where part of a private parking area appears to have collapsed.

"We are closing Coach Street car park while the damage is assessed and we are working with emergency services and North Yorkshire County Council to investigate the incident."