A BOMB disposal squad and police were called to a supermarket in Farnworth after a suspected explosives attack.

Members of the Army's Royal Logistic Corps' Bomb Disposal unit were called to the Tesco superstore in Long Causeway at around 9.30am yesterday morning.

A heavy police presence was also reported as crime scene investigators and other officers were called to the scene.

The Bolton News:

It is believed the bomb squad were called after a failed attempt to blow up and steal from an ATM at the supermarket at around 4am, according to eyewitnesses.

Members of the supermarket's security team were said to have discovered the crime before alerting the police and military who worked throughout the morning to make the area safe.

The Bolton News:

Images captured of the scene show army and police officers gathered around an area near to the supermarket entrance which had been cordoned off.

The supermarket has since reopened.

A Tesco spokesman said: “We are aware of an incident that took place on Friday night. The store is open as usual and we are helping police with their investigation.”

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said:  "At around 7.45am on Saturday April 4, 2020, police received reports of earlier criminal damage to an ATM on Long Causeway, Farnworth.

"Officers attended and established that it had happened at around 3.45am on Saturday 4 April 2020.

"An investigation is underway. No arrests have been made."