CONCERNS were raised after a barrel of chemicals was found in Oldham this afternoon.

The fire and rescue service received a call at around 2.40pm after a resident on Brennan Court discovered a barrel near the back of his property, which was marked with chemical symbols.

Two fire engines and specialist hazmat officers attended and the area was cordoned off.

Residents, including at nearby Devon Mill, were asked to stay indoors for their own safety as the chemical may have been hazardous and caused harm to them.

After examining the material in the barrel, it was identified to be a chemical agent used in heating systems, Hollins Fire Station watch commander Turner said.

Fire crews were in attendance for around two-and-a-half hours.

Mr Turner said the resident who reported the incident was given a medical check but was not found to have suffered any injuries.

No-one suffered from the effects of contamination.

A road closure was in place as emergency services made the scene safe.