THE murder of Mohammed Shafiq has shocked Burnley and Pendle politicians.

Bank Hall councillor Julie Cooper said that Thompson Park users and rangers only recently remarked on the fact that there had been a reduction of problems associated with the park.

Coun Cooper said: "This is extremely tragic for all concerned but this has been an isolated incident as far as Thompson Park has been concerned.

"There have been problems in the past but they have been addressed and we have a new community beat manager, PC Dave Pascoe, who has been doing excellent work in the area."

Meanwhile, Pendle community leaders have urged witnesses to come forward so police can piece together the moments leading up to Mr Shafiq being attacked.

Coun Mohammed Iqbal, Labour leader on Pendle Council, said: "This was a quite horrific attack and I would urge anyone who saw anything, for the sake of the family, to get in touch with police."