DETECTIVES investigating the murder of Michael Dale at a house in Haslingden have arrested a sixth person.

Mr Dale was found with a fatal stab wound to the chest at a house in Charles Lane at around 1.15am on Thursday.

Five people were initially arrested by police on suspicion of murder.  

Two men aged 30 and a 35-year-old man, all from Haslingden, remain in custody.

A 38-year-old man and a 44-year-old woman, also from Haslingden, have been released no further action.

Detectives have now confirmed today that they have arrested a 37-year-old man, of no fixed address, on suspicion of murder. He is currently in custody.

It comes as a a Home Office post mortem examination has established Mr Dales's cause of death as stab wounds.

Det Ch Insp Gareth Willis from the force's major investigation team said: “Our investigation into the murder of Michael Dale is continuing and I can confirm we have now made a sixth arrest as part of our enquiries.

“Three other men remain in custody, while a man and woman have been released no charge.

“My thoughts remain with Mr Dale and his family at this sad and very difficult time. They are being supported by specially trained officers.

“We continue to appeal for information about Mr Dale’s murder and I would urge anyone who can assist our investigation to come forward.”

Anyone with information can call police on 101 quoting log 0062 of May 2. 

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.