A MURDER investigation has been launched and two people arrested after the body of a man was discovered at a house.

Police were called shortly before 1pm on Monday to Berkeley Close, Nelson, after the report that a man in his 40s had been found dead in a property.

He suffered multiple injuries, so officers are treating his death as suspicious.

A 45-year-old man from Nelson has been arrested on suspicion of murder and a 31-year-old woman from Colne has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both remain in custody and police are trying to trace the dead man's family.

Det Ch Insp Allen Davies from Lancashire’s Force Major Investigation Team said: “Despite the fact we have made arrests, our investigation is very much on-going and we are keen to speak to anyone with any information.

“If you saw or know anything that could assist us, including anyone who may have visited the property in question, please get in contact at as soon as possible.

“We appreciate that this incident will have caused some concern in the community and so I would like to reassure people that we have stepped up patrols in the area, where they will remain for some time. If you have any concerns or information, please approach an officer.”

Det Ch Insp Davies added: “We are on with trying to trace the man’s next of kin so they can be informed and supported at this devastating time. My thoughts remain with them and the victim’s family and friends.”

A post mortem examination to establish the cause of the man’s death is set to take place.

Anyone with information can call 101 quoting incident reference 623 of November 8.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.