AN ONGOING police incident has forced the closure of a road in Blackburn.

Officers last night asked members of the public to avoid the area of Lower Hollin Bank Street in the town.

Posting to social media, a spokesman said: “Please avoid the area of lower Hollin Bank Street in Blackburn – the road is going to be closed for the foreseeable due to an on-going police incident.”

And while the exact nature of the incident has yet to be confirmed, many of those who live and work in the area reported seeing divers searching the canal yesterday afternoon, with several officers and police vehicles on the street.

A worker from one of the business units nearby who wished to remain anonymous said: “I’ve heard there’s been a stabbing at the end house.

“I came here at 7.15 this morning and it was all cordoned off. 

“The police have been here all night I think. 

“It’s a bit of a dodgy area round here. There’s been a few break ins at some of the units, people coming through the roof and stuff. 

“We try to keep it secure and do our best."

Updates to follow.