Train services through Stockport are running again, after the station was cordoned off while a bomb squad investigated a 'suspicious' item.

The item in question - a suitcase - has since been revealed to be empty.

A mass emergency response was called to Stockport station just before 6pm this evening (4 November) after the suitcase was discovered on a footbridge near the station.

Passengers on nearby trains were warned of a potential bomb threat.

Others in the vicinity were advised to hide in the nearby Armoury buiding, MEN reports.

Police confirmed that the suitcase was empty and not a threat just after 9pm.

"Along with the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and other emergency services, we have been dealing with an incident on Greek Street in Stockport this evening after reports of a 'suspicious' item on a bridge," a spokesperson said.

"Fortunately the 'device' has been examined and found to be an empty suitcase, and the cordons are being lifted. Thanks for everyone's patience."

Passengers are warned that there may still be some delays as the nearby rail network recovers from the closures.