KIND members of the public kept a distressed man from harm before emergency services were able to get him to safety.

The incident happened during the early hours of Tuesday, March 19, in Durham City.

A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: "Tonight our crews have rescued a distressed male from Milburngate Bridge, Durham.

‪His life was probably saved by the kindness of passers by who stopped him from falling and talked to him until the emergency services arrived."

*The Samaritans free helpline can be contacted 24hours a day 365 days a year by phoning 116 123 or visit the website for support.