LIVE: Suspicious package found at Jobcentre as bomb squad cordons off street

A ‘loud explosion’ has been heard and bomb squads have cordoned off a street in Stockport.

Emergency services are currently at the scene on Wellington Street near McDonald’s in the town centre.

A witness told the Manchester Evening News police, fire crews and bomb disposal units closed off the road at around 2.20pm on Saturday (July 8).

A ‘loud explosion’ was heard just five minutes later.

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The Manchester Evening News has contacted emergency services for more information.

Traffic information website Inrix says: “A6 Wellington Road South in both directions closed due to police incident between Exchange Street and Station Road.”

Transport for Greater Manchester added: “Road closures in Stockport: Wellington St/Piccadilly/ St Peter's Sq/St Peter's Gate/Lawrence St.

“This is due to an ongoing police incident; please avoid the area. Local buses are on diversion. Please check before travel.”

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A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue service confirmed fire crews were called to a suspicious package at the Jobcentre on Wellington Road.

All ambulances have now left the scene, according to witnesses.

Crime scene investigators have arrived at the cordon.

A witness, who did not wish to be named, told the Manchester Evening News:

When I got to Stockport, the road Wellington Street was only cornered off. But whilst in Subway, the bomb disposal turned up police closed Wellington Road.

Then, around five to 10 mins later, there was a loud bang. Not enough to shake any glass, but it was loud enough to echo around the buildings.

Huge police presence and bomb disposal in