There was a huge emergency services presence outside the stores in Oldham, Greater Manchester. TK Maxx released a statement, saying the cordon has been set up as a precaution after a "suspicious item" was reported in the shop.

       The item was later found to not be suspicious and the cordon lifted.

       At the time of the incident, a statement from TK Maxx said: "A cordon is in place and we have specialist resources at the scene to make an assessment of the item.

       "We will provide an update as soon as possible but advise people to stay away from the area for now."

       A Sainsbury's spokesperson said: "Our Oldham Union Street store and petrol station are currently closed.

       "We’re keeping in close contact with the police."

       Greater Manchester Police said it's specialist teams had assessed the item.

       A statement from the force said: "Our specialist resources have assessed the item at TK Maxx in town and it is no longer deemed to be suspicious.

       "There is no risk to the public in relation to this incident and the cordon has been removed.

       "We thank the town for their patience and co-operation this afternoon as we dealt with this report."