A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after two people died and a third was seriously injured in a car smash.

Simon Ashman, 20, of Chester Crescent, Haslingden, and Chantelle Petterson, 16, a Haslingden High School pupil, of the same address, were travelling in a white Metro van when it smashed into a wall near Haslingden Sports Centre.

David Cummings, 22, of Lime Road, who was also travelling in the van remained in a serious condition in hospital today.

Police said the van collided with a stone wall in Helmshore Road, at 11.20pm on Sunday, and the three occupants were injured after being thrown from the vehicle by the impact.

Police said no other vehicle was involved and investigations were continuing to identify a fourth person who they believed was driving.

Sergeant Russ Gregory said: "Evidence at the scene suggested that there would have originally been four occupants in the vehicle at the time of impact."

Detective Inspector Stuart Barlow added: "We are still keen to speak to any witnesses who were in the area at the time of the accident.

"There have been a lot of rumours going around the Valley and we are keen to put together as accurate an account as possible."

Contact police on 01282 425001.