THREE men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man died in the gardens of Wigan Parish Church.

Police were called by the ambulance service to reports of concern for a man at the church on Bishopgate, Wigan shortly before 7.50pm on Thursday, August 6.

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 occurred following an earlier 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 7 and 7.30pm – or anyone acting suspiciously nearby – to get in touch as soon as possible.

A separate murder investigation was also launched last night following the death of a 48-year-old woman in Swinley, Wigan.

The incidents are not believed to be connected, say police.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Butterworth, of GMP’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 (6 August) 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.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4815 quoting incident 2974 of 06/08/2020. Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.