TWO women have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body of a pensioner was found in an industrial unit.

The body of man in his 70’s, named locally as Derek Taylor, was found by police in the unit off Haslingden Road, Blackburn.

Detectives said a post-mortem examination showed he had suffered ‘significant head injuries’.

The Lancashire Telegraph understands police have recovered a possible murder weapon.

Two women, aged 34 and 32, and both from Blackburn, were arrested on Thursday night on suspicion of murder.

They were in custody last night and detectives are set to continue questioning them this morning.

Mr Taylor’s body was found inside the unit in Cross Fold at around 7pm on Wednesday.

Police had originally visited the site after concerns were raised for the welfare of a man.

There was still a police guard at the scene yesterday and crime scene investigators could be seen going inside the property through a white forensics tent.

Det Supt Neil Ashton, who is leading the investigation, said: “We have launched a murder inquiry following the death of a man in Blackburn.

“The body of a male was found with significant head injuries at a unit in Cross Fold around 7pm on Wednesday.

“We have arrested two women on suspicion of murder and they are currently in custody.

“We are in the early stages of our investigation and enquiries are continuing.”

Nearby residents have spoken of their shock at Mr Taylor’s death and described him as a ‘character’.

One neighbour said: “It is a shock especially as it is so close to home.

“He did not deserve to die.

“I can’t get over it. I’m gobsmacked. It is not nice.

“We knew him by sight. He never really bothered anyone and didn’t really speak to anyone. He kept himself to himself.”

She added police had carried out door-to-door inquiries and there was a lot of activity on Thursday.

Another resident said: “I had probably seen him going in and out of the shop.

“I had noticed his car had gone missing. It was always parked on the road so that seemed very odd.”

Another neighbour said: “It is very unpleasant especially as it is near your back yard.

“Even though I did not know him it is very upsetting.”

Another neighbour added: “It is such a shame. He did not deserve that.”

Police confirmed next of kin have been informed.

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting log reference 0802 of January 18.