Shaw Siege: 'I could hear the kids screaming'

CHIEF Supt Neil Evans

TWO neighbours who had taken refuge in the Commercial Inn on Smallbrook Road said they could hear smashing and screaming coming from the house.

Both asked not to be named. The first said: "First of all I heard something at about 12.30am, my missus was asleep and I thought it was just a late party but then I realised.

"At about 3am she heard a big bang and we ran down the stairs, we thought we were being burgled. All hell broke loose. It sounded like he was smashing the house up with an axe. We heard him discharge a firearm."

The second neighbour said: "I'm frustrated, I just can't get into my property. I feel for her, I could hear her screaming and the kids screaming. If it happened to me I would be devastated."

Residents who are unable to get back home were directed to stay at the Lifelong Learning Centre, on High Street. Greater Manchester Police said that they had evacuated 44 properties as a precaution, however few had gone to the centre.

Chief Supt Neil Evans said: "I understand the massive impact this is having in the community. There have been 44 properties evacuated. I would like to thank members of the public for their co-operation."