POLICE closed a road in Newton-le-Willows this afternoon after a "device" was found.

Officers were called to the canal at Newton Brook, near to Church Street and Southworth Road at 1.40pm. 

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Police vehicles at the scene Pic: Kelly Hodson

The bomb disposal unit attended.

A police spokesman later confirmed the device is believed to be a grenade.

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An device has been found Pic: Kelly Hodson

Church Street was closed and residents were urged to stay indoors and road users to avoid the area.

At 4.10pm a police spokesman said: "Explosive Ordnance Disposal have attended and the device has now been confirmed as not live. 

"The incident is now being stood down and the road reopened.

"We thanks residents and road users for their patience while it was resolved."

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Police at the scene during the incident

Earlier this afternoon, a Merseyside Police spokesman said: "We can confirm that a road closure is in place in Newton-le-Willows due to an ongoing incident this afternoon, Sunday, November 17.

"At 1.40pm, officers were called to the canal at Newton Brook, near to Church Street and Southwood Road, after an unknown device was located. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the nature of the device.

"A road closure is now in place on Church Street and we are asking local residents to stay indoors at this time and road users to avoid the area.

"Thanks for your patience as we deal with this incident."