Investigation underway after man found dead in caravan in Colne

An investigation is underway after a man was found dead in a caravan in Lancashire.

Police were called to Oakfield Lodge on Birchenlee Lane in Colne just after 7pm on 28th January, where a man was found unresponsive inside a caravan. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

He has been named as 52 year-old Stuart Burns, who lived at the address.

The force said a post-mortem examination showed that he had suffered a number of serious injuries during a recent assault, but the injuries did not cause his death.

Police said an exact cause of death was yet to be established for Mr Burns and further tests would be carried out.

A 36-year-old man was arrested at the scene initially on suspicion of murder, but is now being held on suspicion of wounding and remains in custody.

Detective Inspector Darren Irving, of the Force Major Investigation Team, said: “My thoughts first and foremost are with Mr Burns’ loved ones at this time.

“While Mr Burns' death is not being treated as a homicide, we do believe he has been the victim of an assault prior to his death where he suffered a number of injuries, and we are investigating the circumstances.

"I would appeal to anyone who has any information which could assist us in our enquiries to come forward and contact police.”