THE Christmas Markets in Manchester are temporarily closed following claims a 'package' was left there.

Police received an abandoned 999 call about the Christmas Markets in Manchester city centre, at 4.50am today.

Later, a man claimed a 'package' had been left in the market.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of malicious communication and remains in custody for questioning.

The market in Albert Square - which attracts millions of visitors each festive season - has been temporarily closed and cordoned off while officers ensure there is no threat to members of the public.

Chief Superintendent Wasim Chaudhry said: “Based on the nature of information we received, we conducted a thorough search of the area and found nothing suspicious or a threat to the public.  

"I understand people may have been frustrated by the closure but I would like to thank them for their patience.

“We take all incidents such as this extremely seriously and the safety of the community we serve is our priority.

"We have plans in place with the local authority for instances such as this and they were implemented successfully.”

Just after midday, police said the festive visitor attraction is in the process of reopening.