Trains halted after suspicious package found

Greater Manchester Police said officers were working alongside British Transport Police

All train services were halted around Stockport rail station in Greater Manchester as bomb disposal experts investigated a suspicious package - which turned out to be an empty suitcase.

The item was reported shortly after 18:00 GMT on a bridge along Greek Street close to the station, police said.

Disruption was expected until 22:00 and was affecting services including those from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester, Crewe, Hazel Grove, Buxton and Stoke-on-Trent, Northern said.

Shortly after 21:00, Greater Manchester Police said the item had been "examined and found to be an empty suitcase".

The force said the cordons were being lifted and thanked passengers for their patience.