LIVE: Greater Manchester town battered by 'localised tornado' as major incident declared and police plead with public to avoid the area - latest updates

Tameside residents were forced to evacuate their homes overnight as a 'localised tornado' caused 'significant damage' in the area.

Police declared a major incident at around 11:45pm after 'numerous' reports of severe damage to property. Dramatic pictures show the scale of destruction including collapsed chimney stacks, smashed windows, and debris on roads.

Officers opened a reception area at Dukinfield Town Hall overnight for those forced to leave their homes or anyone feeling unsafe Thankfully it is undertood nobody was injured during the incident.

READ MORE: 'The painful moment I learned what some people are really facing'

READ MORE: 'We have parents asking if their kids can vape in exams - where will it end?'

Chief Superintendent Mark Dexter from GMP said: “This incident has undoubtedly affected numerous people in the Stalybridge area with many residents displaced from their properties during the night.

“Our highest priority is keeping people safe which is why we are advising those who have been displaced not to return or entre their properties which have significant damage until they have been assessed by structural engineers.

“I would also like to urge members of the public to avoid the area where possible and take extra care when travelling in vehicles on the roads in Stalybridge and the surrounding areas, due to debris in the road.

“This has understandably caused some disruption and, though we are not yet in a position to confirm when the area will return to normal, further updates will be communicated when we have them. I would like to use this opportunity to thank the community for their cooperation and patience.”

Storm Gerrit swept western parts of the UK on Wednesday bringing heavy rain and high winds