A murder investigation has been launched after a man with 'multiple injuries' was found dead in a canal in Leigh.
Police were called to reports of a body being found in the Leeds and Liverpool Canal at around 7am on Thursday.
The discovery was made near King Street in the town centre.
Emergency services attended and the body of a man was recovered from the canal.
The man, believed to be in his 30s, was found with 'multiple injuries', police said.
Police, fire crews, paramedics and underwater search teams were all called to the scene earlier today.
Two roads, Mather Lane and Henry Street, were cordoned off throughout the day.
A resident described the heavy emergency service presence as "frightening".
She said: "It’s a shock that all the police are here this morning, it’s a bit frightening when it’s right outside your door.
"But I suppose these things happen, whatever has gone on is probably really sad."
A scene remains in place this evening and enquiries are ongoing.
A 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody for questioning, a spokesman for GMP confirmed.
Detective chief inspector, Liz Hopkinson of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “Sadly this morning a body was recovered from the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and our thoughts are firmly with the family of the man who has tragically lost his life.
“Our investigation is currently in its initial stages and our team are exploring all available lines of enquiry. We understand that incidents of this nature can be distressing for the community and I want to reassure the public that we are doing all that we can to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
“We will have an increased police presence in the area and we encourage anyone with any concerns or worries to speak with our officers.
“We’d also urge anyone with information or who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area last night or early this morning to get in touch with police as a matter of urgency.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 9283 quoting log 477 of 25/03/21. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
