Several roads in the Littleborough area have been closed off this morning. Witnesses have said the area covers Whalley Avenue and Laneside Close. It is thought the police have been present since 4.30am following reports of a stabbing in the area.

       According to the Manchester Evening News, a heavy armed police presence was heard in the early hours of this evening.

       A large police presence remains at the scene.

       The police have not released a statement concerning today's incident.

       Forensic teams are now at the scene as well as paramedics.

       Kit Vickery said: "I’ve just been chatting with Lesley, who’s lived on the street for over 20 years, who was woken up by someone shouting 'Armed Police' in the early hours of the morning.

       "She heard two loud bangs, and thought she was dreaming at first."

       Away from the incident in Rochdale, traffic monitoring services reported an incident in Manchester city centre.

       Due to an incident involving a lorry, Transport for Greater Manchester claimed the public should avoid the area due to delays.

       The incident was reported at 8.42am this morning.

       A lane was closed eastbound on Great Ancoats street due to the incident.

       Traffic monitoring service, Inrix said a lorry had broken down at the scene.

       JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: Meddling US senators issue trade deal ultimatum to Boris

       A subsequent tweet from Transport for Greater Manchester confirmed the incident.

       They said: "Incident. Lane closed eastbound on Great Ancoats Street just after Oldham Road.

       "This is due to an incident involving an HGV.

       "If you're heading this way expect delays.

       DON'T MISS

       EU panic as gas prices rise: 'If it's cold we are in trouble' [Latest]

       John Bercow opens up on his Brexit meddling [Report]

       EU told to brace for ‘apocalyptic’ drivers shortages as pool dries up [Insight]

       "Follow TfGMTraffic for further updates."

       At 9.28am, the service reported that all lanes were now open.

       They added: Incident now clear and all lanes are now open."

       On September 21, a seperate traffic incident was reported on Great Ancoats Street.

       A road traffic collision was reported at the junction with Adair Street.

       No one was hurt and lanes were reopened within two hours.