LIVE: Bomb disposal team descends on Manchester supermarket after 'attempted robbery' - latest updates

A cordon is in place around a south Manchester supermarket as the bomb disposal unit attends the scene. Officers have been called out to Morrisons, on Wilbraham Road, in Chorlton this morning (Thursday, January 2).

It follows reports of a suspicious package found by a member of the public. The supermarket has been evacuated. A spokesperson for Morrisons told the M.E.N.: "Following an incident at the Chorlton store, the store is now closed on police instruction."

It's believed the suspicious device is linked to an attempted robbery of a cash machine at the store. Images show an area taped off near to the Morrisons petrol station.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "At around 9.20am this morning (Thursday, January 2 2025), officers were called to reports of a suspicious package which was located by a member of the public on Wilbraham Road in Manchester. A nearby commercial premises has been evacuated as per standard procedure.

"The incident is believed to be isolated with no threat to the wider community and officers remain in the area. EOD [Explosive Ordnance Disposal] are attending the scene, and a small cordon is in place."

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

It's believed the suspicious package is linked to an attempted robbery of a cash machine in the early hours of this morning.

The Manchester Evening News understands a security guard discovered the package while inspecting the ATM.

Our reporter Greta has given us this update:

"The car park, store and petrol station are all shut, as are Wilbraham and Albany Road.

"Police, fire and ambulance services are on the scene and residents of the area are being told to stay inside.

"Because of the disturbance, there are no trams running