GAZETTE & HERALD: TWO police officers had to coax a 30-year-old Calne man out of jumping off a bridge on Monday.

The mentally ill man was sitting on the edge of the Millennium Bridge over the A4 between Chippenham and Calne, threatening to jump until a motorist raised the alarm.

PC Michael Matthews and Acting Sergeant Leanne Dunwell, both from Chippenham police, worked together to help the man to safety.

A driver called the police after they saw the man sitting on the bridge with his legs hanging over the side.

A specially trained police negotiator was also called from Devizes but not needed. Fire and ambulance crews were also at the scene.

The bridge was closed in both directions for an hour-and-a-half from 11.15am until the man was down safely at 12.50pm.

Sgt Dunwell, speaking generally about such incidents, said: "We try and engage them in conversation and endeavour to try and help them with the issues they raise."

Inspector Neil Bagnall at Chippenham police said: "We are pleased the whole situation was resolved without injury. A number of staff throughout the force has received extra training in relation to enhancing their negotiating skills.''