In pictures: Work begins clearing debris around Bridgnorth bridge

The wood and logs have been stuck next to the Low Town crossing since January when workers said the water was too high to remove them. The Environment Agency had hoped the wood could be removed within weeks but it has taken four months for water levels to drop to a safe level.

Work was continuing today to remove the wood, which will be used to create new wildlife habitats on the other side of the bridge.

Kate Burn, spokeswoman for the Environment Agency, said: "They have done a lot of work but there is still more to be done. The bigger parts have been removed but they've still got some parts to take away and continue building the new habitats."

Continuing wet weather meant that the water levels stayed high, meaning the water would be moving to fast for it to be safe for workers to get to.

The bridge, which carries Bridge Street into Low Town, has been almost totally covered on one side with the large pieces of wood.

Environment Agency staff were finally able to get out onto the water in boats yesterday and used chainsaws and clippers to cut up the debris.

Nina Finch, also a spokeswoman for the Environment Agency, said: "Thanks to the recent spell of good weather the river has now dropped to a safe level allowing us to remove the debris, which had built up during winter.

"We have checked the debris to ensure no wildlife is using it for nesting or as a habitat. We will remove the debris and the wood will be used to make a habitat pile on Bylet Island for local wildlife. Otter holts and habitat piles will also be created at Bridgnorth Golf Club."Workers have been monitoring the debris but because of the continued wet weather the water has been too high and fast flowing for it to be safe for workers to remove. The debris had been home to a family of geese who laid eggs on the wood as it built up but the goslings have now grown large enough to leave the nest, making it safe to clear.

Bridgnorth's otter has also been spotted amongst the wood.