OXFORD’S Godstow bridge was damaged in a hit-and-run accident.

A large section of the Grade-II listed bridge was left in the river after it was hit by a Nissan Maxima at about 2.15am on Saturday. The car was then abandoned nearby. A police dog and officers searched the area but were unable to find the driver or any passengers.

A police spokesman confirmed the bridge remained “structurally sound”.

Dennis Fogden, of Eynsham, has been a customer at the pub for 57 years and still helps maintain the outside of the building.

He said: “It is a real shame because it is such a lovely old bridge.

“I don’t really know how it happened. There are some skidmarks on the road, but the bridge is so narrow.

“One of the stones which fell into the weir is engraved with the traditional City of Oxford emblem, and I do hope that it is recovered and put back in when the bridge is rebuilt.”

Aaron Derbyshire, 34, of Witney, has been fishing near the bridge for almost 20 years.

He said: “It is a real state. Whoever did it must have been moving pretty fast.

“I come here because it is a beautiful, peaceful part of the world and I think it’s sad that this has happened.”

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 08458 505505.