An investigation remains ongoing after a 'suspicious item' prompted the evacuation of a TK Maxx and Sainsbury's in Oldham.
A huge police cordon was put in place around the shops on Union Street yesterday afternoon (Monday).
A large amount of officers were stationed at the scene and several police vehicles were pictured in the car park.
Both TK Maxx and Sainsbury's were evacuated and people were told to stay away from the area.
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Officers said this was done 'as a precaution' as the item was assessed.
In a later update, they said the item was 'no longer deemed to be suspicious' and that there was no risk to the public.
This morning, a spokesperson for GMP said investigations into the incident are ongoing.
No further details on what the item was are being released at this time, they added.
In an initial statement yesterday, a GMP spokesperson said: "As a precaution we have evacuated TK Maxx in the town centre after a report of a suspicious item.
"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 further statement added: "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."
Sainsbury's said the store and petrol station had been closed and that bosses were working with police.
The M.E.N contacted TK Maxx for a comment.
