THE Erskine Bridge has reopened this afternoon after closing for the second time in 24 hours.

Police Scotland requested its closure for "public safety" reasons shortly before 4.30pm today (Tuesday).

The bridge was shut yesterday (Monday) for around two hours while the Greenpeace vessel, Rainbow Warrior, made its way up the Clyde towards Glasgow.

A statement published on social media by Traffic Scotland today said: "At the request of Police Scotland, the Erskine Bridge will be closed for a short period of time late this afternoon for public safety as a vessel navigates under the structure.

"The closure time will be around 4.30pm, subject to change as it may be affected by local tidal conditions.

"Local diversions will be put in place and the crossing will be reopened as soon as it's safe to do so."