THE body of a man has been found in the River Irwell, recovered by emergency services.

Reports of a body in the water near Peel Street, Radcliffe, alerted police at around 9am this morning.

Both Greater Manchester Police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue attended the scene by the river. Crews recovered the man's body from the river. His death is currently being treated as unexplained.

The public is being asked to avoid the area by police and a number of road closures have been put in place.

"Shortly before 9am this morning (Friday 31 January 2020), police were called to reports of a body in the River Irwell near Peel Street, Radcliffe.

“Emergency services are in attendance the body of a man has been recovered from the water.

“His death is currently being treated as unexplained.

“A number of road closures are in place and members of the public are being asked to avoid the area."

Police are appealing for any witnesses or those with information to come forward.

People are asked to contact police on 101 quoting 684 31/01/20.

Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.