A POLICE investigation is under way after reports of gunshots being exchanged between two cars this evening.

Part of Bowker Street in Radcliffe was cordoned off.

People were kept out of their homes as they returned home from work while detectives and crime scene investigators searched the area, including gardens.

Police were on the scene before 5pm and remained on the street until late evening, when the cordon was lifted.

The incident is not being treated as terror related.

Cllr Jamie Walker, deputy cabinet member for communities and safer neighbourhoods, said: “I have spoken to Greater Manchester Police regarding the incident and I have been assured that it is not being treated as terror related.

“They informed me that they believe that there is no threat to the public and that they are working to locate the people involved.”

Residents reported coming home from work to find the street sealed off.

One person who lived nearby, who did not wish to be named, said: "I came home and there was all sorts of commotion. I could get into my house but I know lots of people couldn't."

Police were seen going door-to-door around the area as they tried to gather information.

It is understood they will also be studying CCTV footage.

Other residents were noticeably worried as they saw the cordon as they tried to get to their homes.

Police later escorted those living within the cordon to their properties – residents said there had been speculation about gunshots, but nothing had been confirmed.

The Bolton News has contacted Greater Manchester Police for more information on the incident.