Closing Clifton Suspension Bridge

Over the weekend Clifton Suspension bridge in Bristol was closed due to a "crack" in one of the suspension rods. My small claim to fame is to be with the "member of the public" who noticed the fault. We were staying with friends in Bristol and the four of us went for a walk over the bridge. Our hostess noticed rather more than a crack in one of the suspension rods - it was completely sheared through.

When she pointed out the break I assumed that the authorities would know about it and had decided it was safe. However, her busband, being more conscientious, reported it to the toll booth and to my surprise they took it very seriously and an hour or two later the bridge was closed. I think there is a lesson there somewhere.