Old Trafford: Controlled explosion carried out as Man Utd game called off

Fans leave Manchester United's Old Trafford following the security alert

A controlled explosion has been carried out at Old Trafford after a suspect package was found ahead of Manchester United's match against Bournemouth.

Two stands - the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand and the Stretford End - were evacuated before the final game of the season and sniffer dogs brought in.

Kick-off, due at 15:00 BST, was delayed and shortly afterwards the match was abandoned on police advice.

A bomb disposal team carried out the explosion at about 16:30 BST

Greater Manchester Police confirmed the controlled explosion on Twitter

An "operation red code" alert was heard over the tannoy at 14:40 BST and the players who were warming up left the field.

The club then announced: "Due to the discovery of a suspect package in the north-west quadrant of the ground, the match has been abandoned for today on police advice.

"People in the stadium are advised to remain in their seats while the forecourt is cleared of fans evacuated from the stadium. Further announcements will be made as soon as possible."