Witnesses asked to call police 'as matter of urgency' as they investigate murder outside Wigan Parish Church

Emergency services were called to the church's gardens, on Bishopgate, shortly before 7.50pm on Thursday following reports of concern for a man.

But despite their best efforts, the 34-year-old died at the scene.

An investigation is under way and police say their initial findings indicate the incident occurred following an earlier altercation.

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

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

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

Det Ch Insp 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 and 7.30pm please call police as a matter of urgency and aid us with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4815 quoting incident 2974 of August 6.

Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.