Jewish club evacuated over 'substance' in envelope

The centre has been evacuated as a precaution, police said

A Jewish social club opposite the Manchester synagogue which was subjected to a car and knife attack has been evacuated amid fears surrounding a substance found in an envelope, police have said.

The Nicky day centre on Middleton Road in Crumpsall was evacuated due to concerns over what was described as a "suspicious substance".

Greater Manchester Police said they evacuated the centre as a precaution.

The force later confirmed the substance was "non-suspicious" and the BBC understands the item was a flower which had died and dispersed its seeds.

"We appreciate your patience and the co-operation from the community," police added.

Earlier, the force said it was aware of "the concern this may cause after the events at the nearby Heaton Park synagogue earlier this month".

Forensics officers were still on scene doing final checks but the centre would reopen within the next few hours, the force added.

The Nicky's website describes it as a Jewish social club for adults of all ages and abilities.

Two people died and three others were taken to hospital after Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, drove a car at members of the public before stabbing people outside the synagogue on 2 October.

Adrian Daulby, 53, and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz were killed, with police later revealing Mr Daulby was hit by police gunfire as officers tried to stop the attacker.