TWO people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man died from head injuries following a fight in Uppermill last night (Friday).

Police say the victim, believed to be in his 30s, collapsed with head injuries having been involved in a 'physical altercation' on the High Street at around 11.30pm.

Emergency services attended and administered first aid before he was rushed to hospital, where he sadly died a short time later.

A Home Office Post Mortem was due to take place later today (Saturday) and a crime scene remains in place outside Uppermill Methodist Church next to The Commercial pub.

Officers investigating the incident arrested two 24-year-old men at the scene on suspicion of assault but they have since been further arrested on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody for questioning.

Detectives investigating the man’s death are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. They are particularly keen to speak to a man who spoke with officers when they first attended the scene.

He's described as possibly being in his 40s and was wearing a pale blue short sleeved polo style shirt and dark trousers with short black hair. Police believe he may hold key information that could be important to the investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Liz Hopkinson, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “This is an incredibly sad incident which has resulted in the death of a man, only a few days before Christmas. We are working to provide his family with support from specially trained officers at this difficult time.

“We currently have two men in custody, who will be questioned by detectives later today, however I would like to continue to appeal for anyone who may have information to please come forward.

“In particular, we would like to speak with a man that spoke with officers when they first arrived at the scene last night. We believe he may hold key information that can help our investigation so if you know who this man is or you recognise it to be yourself, please get in touch with police.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 9283 or the independent charity Crimestopppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.