A MURDER inquiry has been launched in Burnley after a man was found dead at his home.

John Stoiles, 53, was found on Saturday lying on the floor at his home address in Ashley Street, Stoneyholme.

An ambulance was called to the house shortly before 9am. Neighbours said Mr Stoiles was found by his son Gary.

A post mortem examination carried out by Home Office pathologist Dr John Rutherford yesterday revealed he had died from injuries received during an assault.

Police say they know Mr Stoiles was involved in an incident in Hebrew Road, Burnley, last Wednesday and are appealing for witnesses. Detective Superintendent Paul Buschini, who is leading the investigation, said: "We are now treating this man's death as murder.

"We need to know who else was involved in the fight on Wednesday and what it is all about.

"I would urge anyone with information to come forward as soon as possible or they can use the confidential Crimestoppers number on 0800 555111.''

An incident room has also been set up at Burnley police station on 01282 425001.

A neighbour who was with Gary when the body was found said: "Mr Stoiles had lived in Stoneyholme all his life and was known to everyone as Johnny.

"He was very popular and everyone liked him. We are shocked by what has happened and that he was beaten up in some incident in the Duke Bar area last Wednesday.

"He has one son Gary and they often spent all day together.'''

Mr Stoiles lived alone and was unemployed.

Relatives in Accrington Road, Burnley, were too upset to comment today.

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