A 13-year-old girl has been arrested after gas was released from an aerosol at a school in Manchester, prompting an evacuation.

       Paramedics and firefighters were called to St Paul’s Catholic High School in Wythenshawe and a major incident was declared after the "release of gas from an aerosol can".

       The teenager was arrested on suspicion of possession of a section 5 offensive weapon, and remains in custody.

       More than 100 people were assessed for injuries and two were taken to hospital with breathing difficulties. Their condition is not life-threatening.

       Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said they rushed to the scene and "ventilated the premises". It is not yet clear what the aerosol contained.

       North West Ambulance Service said: "At 12:16pm on Wednesday, the service was called to an incident involving a release of gas at St Paul’s RC High School, Wythenshawe, Manchester.

       "Due to the number of potential casualties and the resources needed at the scene, the trust declared a major incident."

       A school spokesman said: "Earlier this afternoon the school was evacuated as a precaution due to the suspected discharge of an aerosol in one area of the school.

       "The emergency services were called by the school to support the efforts being made to ensure the wellbeing of our pupils.

       "All pupils have been accounted for and responded to the situation in a very mature way."