Emergency bomb disposal team rush to cricket club as residents flee from homes

Bomb disposal teams were called to a residential street following a suspicious incident as an 100m exclusion zone was erected and residents were evacuated

Bomb disposal units have swarmed to a cricket club as residents have been evacuated after emergency services rushed to investigate a suspicious incident.

A cordon was set up as fire crews, police and specialist explosives teams descended on the residential street. The ordeal took place at Chew Brook Drive in Greenfield, Oldham, on Sunday (April 26). Homes were cleared as a safety measure and the Women’s 1st XI match at nearby Greenfield Cricket Club also put on hold and spectators advised not to attend. Photos from the scene showed numerous police vehicles present with crime scene tape extending across the road. An 100m exclusion zone was implemented as locals were temporarily displaced from their homes for “items'” to be evaluated.

Residents within the cordoned-off area were instructed to stay indoors or were evacuated as a precautionary measure, according to the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. Emergency teams were alerted to the incident just before noon, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that “several items” were subsequently removed from a property by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit and sent for assessment, allowing residents to return home. No additional information about the items under scrutiny has been disclosed.

Chief Inspector Ian Partington, of GMP, said: “We would like to thank residents for their patience and co-operation today while we carried out our investigations alongside partners at the EOD and the fire service.”

Greenfield Cricket Club posted an online statement: “Due to an ongoing incident on Chew Brook Drive there is currently an 100m exclusion zone in place. Emergency services currently in attendance.

“As such today’s match has been postponed and the police have instructed the public not to attend the cricket ground and park. In the meantime we will use our socials to provide updates. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.” The incident continued for approximately four hours, with the cordon removed at around 4pm.

A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “At just before 12pm today (Sunday 26 April) fire crews were called to support Greater Manchester Police on Chew Brook Drive, Greenfield.

“Fire engines from Chadderton, Hollins and Mossley attended, along with specialist officers and technical rescue units. A cordon was established around the premises, and residents within the affected area were advised to remain indoors or were evacuated as a precaution.

“Firefighters worked closely with police, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams and other agencies to ensure public safety. Crews were in attendance for approximately four hours.”

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