BREAKING: Homes evacuated after residents 'smell gas' with emergency services on scene - live updates

People living on a street in Rochdale have been evacuated after reports of residents 'smelling gas' earlier today. Derby Street, at the junction with Milkstone Road, has been cordoned off with fire crews and police at the scene.

It is understood that a number of residents have been evacuated from their homes as a safety precaution. Pictures from the scene show a number of fire engines and police cars.

The road is cordoned off currently for investigations into the cause of the smell of gas. Further details about the incident are yet to be confirmed.

Greater Manchester Police and the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have been approached for comment.

This is a live incident. Updates to follow.

The incident this evening has now been confirmed by police and the fire service as a gas leak.

It is understood the cause of the leak has been sourced and the supply has now been cut off. Cadent Gas remain at the scene.

Residents that were evacuated have since been allowed back into their homes.

"I saw that most of Milkstone Road was closed off by the Deeplish Primary Academy," they said.

"I tried to go round and come out at Lechworth Avenue but there was also a cordon in place at that exit and lots of people were stood around.

"There were approximately four fire engines and three police cars. Nobody was allowed through."

Residents are understood to have 'smelt gas' earlier today.

As a precaution, emergency services, including police and fire crews, attended the scene.

There is a cordon in place on Derby Street currently. It is understood a number of homes have been evacuated.

Our reporter is on the way to the scene.