A MURDER investigation is under way after a man was stabbed in Blackpool in the early hours today.

Officers were called to a flat on Alexandra Road in the Lytham Road area of the seaside resort at around 2am.

Officers entered the flat and discovered the body of a 41-year-old man. He had received a number of stab wounds to the upper torso and was dead at the scene.

Police said the victim is from Blackpool.

Prior to entering the flat, a man was found on the street also suffering from stab wounds. His injuries are not thought to be life threatening and he is currently receiving medical attention at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

Four people have been arrested on suspicion of murder and detectives have launched an investigation and a major incident room has opened at Blackpool Police Station.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Superintendent Andy Murphy from the Force Major Investigation Team said, “An investigation has been launched following the discovery of a man’s body.

“A post-mortem examination will take place later on today to establish the exact cause of death. We currently have a scene in place on Alexandra Road so it is closed to public access.

“We have been able to identify the victim and specialist family liaison officers will be supporting his family during this difficult time.

“Both detectives and neighbourhood policing officers are in the area and should any member of the public have information that they think might assist us or any concerns then I would urge them to speak to one of those officers.”

Anyone with information should call Blackpool Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.