'I couldn't believe it' - Shocked residents react after bomb scare

Residents were left shocked this afternoon (March 19) when a bomb disposal team appeared outside their homes.

People living on Thomas Street, Stretford, spotted the bomb squad alongside regular police officers parked at the end of their road next to a footpath which leads to the Bridgewater Canal. The emergency teams remained in the area until around 5.30pm.

It came after police received reports of a 'suspicious item' in the canal. However, following an investigation, officers found that the device was not viable.

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While residents were relieved to hear the news, many were left surprised when the emergency crews arrived. Several police cars, fire engines and a bomb disposal van were pictured stationed on the road throughout the afternoon.

One person who lived on nearby Stanton Street but asked not to be named, said: "I came home and saw it. There were loads of police, loads of them. It was a shock to be honest."

Another person who lived in the area added: "I couldn't believe it. I saw the police and then the bomb people.

"They were here for ages as well, quite a while. It's quite a long way from most of the houses but it was still surprising to see."

Experts from the bomb squad were sent to assess the item. One was pictured holding an x-ray device.

A statement posted on the GMP Stretford Twitter account said: "We’ve had a scene on at the bottom of Thomas Street after being called to a report of a suspicious item in the canal this afternoon.

"After an assessment by EOD, the item wasn’t found to be viable and the scene is now being closed down. Thank you for your patience."