A murder inquiry is under way after a mother and daughter were found dead inside a fire and smoke-damaged house.

Dr Saman Mir Sacharvi, 49, and her daughter, Vian Mangrio, 14, were discovered after police went to their home around 8.45am on Thursday after receiving a report of concern for their safety.

Officers who attended the house on Colne Road, Reedley, discovered their bodies along with evidence of fire and smoke inside the house.

Post-mortem examinations will be carried out to try to establish the cause of the deaths.

Lancashire Police confirmed they have opened a murder inquiry while the deaths remain unexplained but detectives are keeping an open mind on the circumstances as their investigation continues.

UPDATE: Double murder inquiry - mother died from neck injuries

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said the two deceased have not been formally identified but their next of kin have been informed and they are being supported by specially trained officers.

Miss Mangrio was a pupil at Marsden Heights School in Nelson.

Supt Jon Holmes, Lancashire Constabulary’s head of major crime, said: “These are tragic circumstances and my thoughts are very much with the loved ones of Dr Sacharvi and Miss Mangrio at this time.

“We remain in the relatively early stages of what is a major investigation with a dedicated team of detectives and staff following a number of lines of enquiry in order to piece together what has happened.

“At this stage it is too early to say what has led to the deaths of Dr Sacharvi and Miss Mangrio and we are keeping an open mind.

“I would appeal to anyone who has any information, or who has seen anything suspicious at or around the address to come forward and contact us.

“Even if you think that the information you have may be insignificant please come and speak to us and let us be the judge.

“We recognise the impact on the community that this incident may create and we have extra patrols in and around the area as reassurance.

“If anyone has information or concerns they should feel free to approach any of our officers.”

Anyone with information can contact police quoting log 0298 of October 1 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.