THREE men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man was found dead in the gardens of a church in Wigan.

Police were sent by the ambulance service to Wigan Parish Church on Bishopgate shortly before 7.50pm yesterday, Thursday, to reports of concern for a man.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, a 34-year-old man sadly died at the scene.

Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding his death are ongoing but initial findings indicate the incident happened after an altercation at the scene.

Three men – aged 30, 19 and 18 – have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in custody for questioning.

An 18-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

Detectives are appealing for any witnesses that saw a group of men in the area between 7pm to 7.30pm – or anyone acting suspiciously nearby – to get in touch as soon as possible.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Butterworth, of Greater Manchester Police's Major Incident Team, said: “Firstly, our thoughts are with the victim and his family after this devastating incident; our specialist officers are working closely with them at this time.

“We have made four swift arrests but are keen to ensure we hear from every possible witness of this incident so that we accurately piece together the circumstances leading up to the victim’s tragic passing.

“If you were near the Wigan Parish Church on Thursday evening or saw a group of men acting suspiciously in the area between 7-7.30pm please call police as a matter of urgency and aid us with our enquiries.”

If you have any information contact police on 0161 856 4815 quoting incident 2,974 of August 6.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.