AN Accrington man has been found dead at his home less than 24 hours after being involved in a bar brawl.

Gary Leigh was discovered by his girlfriend at the ground floor flat they shared at Eastside Spire Farm, in Sandy Lane, Accrington shortly after 1.40pm on Saturday.

Paramedics were first on the scene but were unable to help and alerted police to Mr Leigh's death.

The 38-year-old had been out drinking at the National Association of Church and Oswaldtwistle Club, in Straits Lane, Oswaldtwistle on Friday evening, and had been involved in a fight with two men he knew, officers said.

Two men, aged 31 and 37, from Accrington were arrested on suspicion of affray and common assault in relation to the incident at the Straits Lane club. They were released yesterday on police bail until May.

Officers believe Mr Leigh made his way home after the fight with bruises to his body.

However a post-mortem examination has confirmed that his death is not linked to the assault.

Officers are now awaiting toxicology results to establish an exact cause of his death.

DI Mark Vaughton said: “Although his death remains unexplained, we have ruled out any third party involvement.

“An investigation is underway into the circumstances of his death and officers are supporting his family.”

A friend of Mr Leigh’s, who drinks in the Straits Lane pub, but did not want to be named, said he was ‘sadden to hear of Mr Leigh’s death.

He said: “I was really shocked to hear Gary had died. He was a really nice fella.

“I didn’t see the scuffle on Friday, but I am surprised Gary was involved as he is usually a quiet bloke who likes to keep himself to himself.

“He wasn’t a regular here, he just used to pop in for a pint now and again and to see his Dad Joe.

“My thoughts are with his family.”

A neighbour from Sandy Lane, said: “Everyone is really shocked to hear Gary has died. He was a really nice man.

“My thoughts are with his girlfriend Diane, she must be devastated.”