A MAN found critically injured in a flat had died, police have confirmed.

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of 65-year-old Stuart Newton.

He was found with serious head injuries inside a flat in Worsley Court, Oswaldtwistle, yesterday lunchtime but lost his fight for life at Royal Preston Hospital today.

A 30-year-old man from Accrington, initially arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm has now been re-arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody this afternoon.

A post mortem examination will take place in the coming days to establish a cause of Mr Newton's death.

Detectives are still trying to establish how Mr Newton sustained his injuries and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Lee Wilson said: “Our thoughts are very much with Mr Newton’s loved ones at this tragic time. They are being supported by specially trained officers.

“It is currently unclear how Mr Newton came by his injuries – whether as a result of an assault or a fall, or both and we are trying to establish exactly what has happened. I would appeal to anyone who has any information to come forward and contact us.

“While we have made one arrest, we remain in the very early stages of our investigation and our enquiries are on-going.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log number 0165 of February 13 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.