Police have declared a major incident after a giant sinkhole opened up along a canal causing its banks to collapse.

Emergency services were called to the Chemistry area of Whitchurch, Shrops., following the "significant breach" of the Shropshire Union Canal."

At least ten people were rescued after three boats became caught up by the 50m (164ft) x 50m (164ft) sinkhole which developed at 4.22am today (Mon).

A 'multi-agency' response has since been set up but no injuries have been reported.

A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: "A major incident had been declared in Shropshire following reports of a sinkhole affecting a canal in the Chemistry area of Whitchurch."

"Emergency services are currently on scene, and a multi-agency response has been set up, co-ordinated through the Shropshire Tactical Co-ordination Group (TCG)."

"There are currently no reports of any casualties, and residents are being assisted by the fire service."

"We ask that people avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Further updates will be provided when we are able to do so."

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said they received reports of a canal bank collapse with large volumes of water escaping into surrounding land.



Crews form Whitchurch, Prees, Shrewsbury, Newport, Albrighton and Telford attended the scene.

A fire service spokesperson said: "Firefighters have been working in challenging conditions with unstable ground and rapidly moving water, crews immediately established upstream and downstream safety sectors and began mitigating water flow using barge boards and water gate systems."

"We are working with out partners on scene including West Mercia Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service (including HART), the Canal & River Trust, the Environment Agency, local authority emergency planning officers, and National Resilience."

Area manager Scott Hurford added: "We can confirm no persons are believed to be on board the affected canal boats, and no injuries have been reported. "

"Approximately 12 residents from nearby moored boats are being supported and relocated to a welfare centre at the former Whitchurch Police Station."

"A major incident was declared at 5.17am however as of 8.30am the situation was stable with water flow reduced and there is no ongoing search and rescue activity."

"Multiagency attendance remains in place to manage the environmental impact, protect nearby properties, and ensure public safety. "

"Please avoid the area while we continue to deal with this significant incident."

The Canal and River Trust (CRT) advised boaters and residents that an emergency closure is in place along the canal.

A spokesperson for the CRT said: "Please be advised that due to an incident, there is an emergency closure in place between Lock 6 Grindley Locks and Bridge 31A, Whitchurch By-Pass bridge."

"Please do not approach from either direction and we will provide an update in due course."