Hundreds of shoppers were told to leave IKEA in Ashton-under-Lyne this afternoon due to unconfirmed reports of a 'gas leak', with roads cordoned off nearby.
Customers at the huge homeware store heard an alarm, which was sounded at around 3.30pm this afternoon. According to witnesses, staff told families with children to leave first, with others following behind, as the fire exit doors were opened.
One shopper told the M.E.N that the exit from the car park was 'gridlocked' with heavy traffic after the announcement. The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were seen in attendance nearby, with a cordon erected on Oldham Road, just behind IKEA.
The fire service has been approached for further information on this incident. This is an ongoing incident. Follow below for the latest updates. IKEA has also been approached by the Manchester Evening News this afternoon for further information on the incident.