An area near Strangeways prison has been cordoned off this morning following a suspected chemical spill.

The emergency services were called to Mary Street off Bury New Road in Manchester city centre following reports a tanker had spilled liquid onto the road at around 8.15am.

The tanker was marked up as containing toxic chemicals, possibly Xylene which is a an extremely flammable liquid.

Firefighters wearing special chemical suits are at the scene trying to contain the spillage.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: "We are still assessing the material. We believe some of it may have leaked into the drains. We are working with the Environment Agency to deal with any run-off."

Police closed roads around the scene while firefighters deal with the incident. Bury New Road is still open.