A SUPERMARKET had to be evacuated this evening after a bomb scare.

The panic at Asda's Radcliffe superstore was sparked by a suspicious note left inside the store, police confirmed.

However, when officers conducted a search of the shop, in Pilkington Way, they found no suspicious packages and allowed staff and shoppers to return.

An Asda spokesman thanked customers for their patience and said their safety was the store's first priority.

Reports emerged shortly after 5pm on Monday that the supermarket had been evacuated, with people seen filing out of the store and onto the old bus station site opposite.

The adjacent McDonald's restaurant was also evacuated as a precaution, and both buildings were reopened by 6.30pm following the police search.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: "Police were called shortly after 5.10pm on Monday, June 13, to Asda on Pilkington Way to a report of a suspicious note.

"Upon arrival the store had been evacuated. A search was undertaken and nothing suspicious was found.  

"Staff and customers have returned into the store."

An Asda spokesman added: “Police were called to our Radcliffe store following an incident late this afternoon. 

"The store was evacuated for short time while police carried out their investigation, but we’re pleased to confirm that we’re now fully open as normal.

"Our first priority is always to ensure the safety of our customers and colleagues, and we would like to thank them for their patience during this matter.”

Senior staff at the store declined to comment when approached by the Radcliffe Times.

News of the evacuation and potential bomb threat quickly spread on social media.

Susan Jones said on Facebook: "Bomb scare at Asda had to leave my shopping and run."

Gary Patmore posted: "Seriously though, why would someone leave a note saying there was a bomb in Asda? Hope they're caught and jailed."

Vicky Wardle added: "Whoever did it should be punished, what idiots. Seriously, how can they find that funny? Very small minded people."