A MAN who was stabbed to death in his home has been named by police.

A murder investigation was launched on Thursday morning after Michael Dale was pronounced dead in his home on Charles Lane, Haslingden. 

The 46-year-old, who is a well-known tattoo artist in the town, was found with a single stab wound to his chest at around 1.15am.

Two men aged 30, a 35-year-old man, a 38-year-old man and a 44-year-old woman, all from Haslingden, have been arrested suspicion of murder and are currently in police custody.

Det Ch Insp Gareth Willis from Lancashire’s Force Major Investigation Team said: “These are tragic circumstances and my thoughts are with Mr Dale and his family at this sad time.

“We are in the early stages of our investigation and I have a team of detectives piecing together exactly what has happened to Mr Dale and why."

Mr Dale is known by many as the former owner of The Ink Spot Tattoo Studio, based on Deardengate in Haslingden. 

His business Facebook page had over 1,000 followers and reviews on the page describe him as a man with 'bags of talent' and the ability to make his customers feel at ease. 

Many have publicly paid tribute to Mr Dale on Facebook, describing their shock at the news of his death. 

Jayne Barrett said: "He was such a nice man. I can't understand how anyone would have wanted to do this to him.

"Rest in peace Mick, I am very sorry to hear this news."

Another added: "I can't believe this news. My thoughts are with all of his family."

A post mortem is expected to take place over the coming days to establish the cause of Mr Hale's death.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the police on please contact us as soon as possible on 101 quoting log 0062 of May 2nd.