LIVE: Body found at Ashton Canal near Etihad Stadium - latest updates

A warning has been issued to fans after police taped off an area near to Manchester City's ground. Police are in attendance at the Ashton Canal on Clayton Lane, less than a mile from the Etihad Stadium.

It's understood that officers have been called out after an item was found in the canal. It's not yet known if the item is suspicious, the Manchester Evening News understands.

A cordon is in place on Clayton Lane. Eyewitnesses have reported seeing several police cars and an ambulance in attendance.

READ MORE: Arson investigation underway after two 'linked' fires in Greater Manchester

The cordon comes before City host Southampton at the Etihad, with the Premier League match due to kick off at 3pm. Officers have issued a warning to football fans ahead of the game.

A GMP Manchester East spokesman posted on Facebook: "We are currently responding to an incident on Clayton Lane near to the canal with other emergency services. For those attending the #MCFC fixture soon please be aware a scene is in place, and you will have to seek an alternative route towards the Etihad Stadium."

Further details about the incident are yet to be confirmed. A reporter is on their way to the scene.

This is a live event. Follow the latest updates below.

Clayton Lane has been blocked while a private ambulance arrives at the scene.

A team from HM Coroners is in attendance.

Police have confirmed that a body was found on the Ashton Canal earlier today.

There are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.

Workers from Canal and River Trust are at the scene.

Workers from the Canal and River Trust, who managed the country's canal network, are also here at the scene pic.twitter.com/GS5h7JqF4W

Fans are being stopped from using the canal as a