Homes have been evacuated and a bomb squad has been sent in following reports of an “ongoing incident” on a street in Greater Manchester this afternoon.

Specialist explosives teams from a bomb disposal unit, a bomb disposal robot, and emergency services including police were seen on Ellesmere Street in Failsworth.

Greater Manchester Police told GB News: “Emergency services are currently responding to an ongoing incident on Ellesmere Street in Failsworth.

“A cordon is in place while enquiries are ongoing.

Another angle of Failsworth's Ellesmere Street, where emergency services are currently in place

“Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) have been tasked to attend the scene and inspect the property.

“As a precaution, several houses in the area have been asked to evacuate while this work continues.

“People are being asked to avoid Ellesmere Street and its surrounding areas.”

A Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “At just after 2.20pm this afternoon (Wednesday March 13) three fire engines from Hollins, Chadderton and Philips Park fire stations were called to reports of an incident on Ellesmere Street, Failsworth.

“Crews remain in attendance in support of colleagues from Greater Manchester Police, North West Ambulance Service and Explosive Ordinance Disposal.”