A 'MURDER' victim was involved in a fight the night before his body was found, police revealed today.

The 69-year-old victim was discovered in his flat in Preston New Road, Blackburn, at 8.15am yesterday.

A post-mortem examination showed the man had been the victim of a very serious assault.

Four people have been arrested in connection with the death and were being questioned at Greenbank police station, Whitebirk, today.

Police discovered the body after being called to the flat, near the junction of Montague Street.

However, officers also attended the home on Wednesday night to reports of a fight. The man refused medical treatment and no complaint was made.

A police spokesman added: "We have launched a murder investigation. We think we know who the deceased man is but we have not been in touch with his family and he has not been formally identified. I cannot release his name, but he was in his 60s.

"The post mortem examination established he died as the result of a very serious assault. Forensic examination continues and witnesses are being interviewed.

"An inquiry room has been established at the police station. Four people arrested in connection with the death will be interviewed later today."

Anyone with information should call Blackburn CID on 01254 353569.