THE results of post-mortem examinations into the deaths of a mum and her two young children are expected to be revealed today.

A Home Office pathologist was carrying out the examinations yesterday after a young family was found dead in Arthur Street, Little Lever on Monday afternoon.

Tiffany Stevens, believed to be in her mid 20s, was found dead at home with her daughters, Casey, aged three and Darcey, aged one.

Police and ambulance services were called to the rented terraced house just after 3.30pm on Monday.

Later that night police confirmed the mum and two children had been found dead.

Yesterday morning speculation was rife that the deaths were the result of carbon monoxide poisoning, but police issued a statement ruling that out later in the morning.

Supt Rick Jackson, of Bolton police, said: "We are keeping an open mind as to what happened to the woman and her children and the investigation is likely to take some time.

“However, based on what we know so far we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.

“I would urge anyone who knows anything to get in touch with us as a matter of urgency, as your information could be vital to this investigation.”

He added: “This is an incredibly tragic incident and we have specialist officers supporting the family at this unimaginably difficult time.

“Our officers will be continuing with inquiries at the scene over the coming days and detectives will be investigating the full circumstances surrounding what happened.”

A police presence remained at the scene all day, with officers putting up cordons both in front of the house and in the cobbled alley behind the property.

Crime Scene investigators were called at about 2.30pm and parked in the alleyway behind the home, with white suited officers coming and going from their vehicle for around two hours.

Ms Stevens' landlords Great Places Housing Group issued a statement yesterday evening.

Matthew Harrison, chief executive, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the tragedy at one of our properties in Little Lever and we wish to express our deepest sympathies to everyone affected.

“We are assisting the police with their investigation and we may comment further as details emerge.”

Many people have paid tribute to the family saying they are “devastated” to learn of their deaths and a steady stream of friends and relatives visited the home throughout the afternoon and evening to leave flowers and gifts.