Famous Paris 'Love locks' removed from bridge

Paris government officials have begun removing padlocks attached to the city's main bridges by besotted couples.

The famous Pont des Arts bridge has become known worldwide as the place for loved-up couples to tye a 'love lock' to the bridge before throwing the key into the River Seine beneath, to symbolise an unbreakable love.

But the strain of the locks has caused the bridges railings to collapse.

Over the next few days, close to one million locks -- weighing an estimated 45 tonnes -- will be cut off the bridge.

The grilles on the bridge will be replaced with transparent panels to prevent locks from being added to the bridge.