Several schools in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan, were placed on lockdown this afternoon following reports of a man carrying a firearm. The incident unfolded around 3.15pm, prompting immediate action from local authorities.

Greater Manchester Police received calls about a suspicious male in the town centre. In response, schools including Byrchall High School, Cansfield, and St Oswald’s RC Primary implemented safety procedures, keeping pupils indoors.

A police spokesperson stated, "At around 3.15pm today we were called to reports of a suspected firearms sighting on Gerard Street, Ashton-in-Makerfield. No injuries have been reported."

Armed officers were dispatched to the scene, and neighbourhood patrols increased their visibility in the area. During the operation, two men were stopped and searched, but no firearms were found.

The situation has since been resolved, and police continue to investigate the reports.