A 26-year-old man arrested in connection with "suspicious packages" found in Manchester and Oldham has been detained under the Mental Health Act.

Bomb squads rushed to Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester and Oldham Library yesterday afternoon after an alleged bomb threat was reported.

Shortly after 12pm police officers responded to a "suspicious" backpack found in Piccadilly Gardens.

People were warned to avoid the area as a cordon was swiftly set up and nearby shops and office evacuated.

Trams were also redirected and many stood vacant on the surrounding lines.

A second device was found soon after in the men's toilets at Oldham Library, and the area was also cordoned off.

It is believed the incidents are linked.

Bomb disposal units attended both scenes but determined the devices were "non-viable" and made the areas safe.

One suspect was arrested on suspicion of a bomb hoax offence, possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of a bladed article and possession of an offensive weapon.

He remained in custody for questioning overnight and, just before 6.30pm today, police confirmed he has since been sectioned under the Mental Health Act 1983.

Enquiries are currently ongoing to establish the full details of the incidents.