Neighbours have spoken of their shock after a murder investigation was launched following the death of a toddler in Barnoldswick.

Police were called to a house on Sunday by ambulance staff who had responded to an emergency call to treat two-year-old Harrison Pratt.

A man and woman, both aged 24 from the town, were later arrested on suspicion of murder and child cruelty.

The two people arrested are the youngster’s parents, named locally as Sam Upton and Nathan Pratt.

Neighbours said the couple had lived in the house in St Mary’s Avenue, on the Coates estate, for around 15 months with their children Caleb, four and Harrison, two.

Next-door neighbour Patricia Pickering, who has lived in the street since 1989, said she was very shocked.

She said: "I was sat in my front room and I saw Nathan walking up and down outside. He looked as white as a sheet.

“The ambulance arrived and I thought it must be something serious because there were so many police going in and out of the house.

"Then Sam came outside with Nathan and I asked if everything was ok, but she just looked at me and said 'Pat, Harrison has died in his sleep’. “I went to pieces and came back inside crying.

"I can't believe it because those children were so well looked after.

“They were only playing outside in the garden the other day - they're such a nice family.

“When the house became empty I was worried about who would get it but I was relieved when they moved in because they are ideal neighbours.

"I often see Sam taking Caleb to nursery and if I am outside the front door they always stop for a chat.

"Harrison was always in his pushchair but he was quite forward for his age and always said hello.

“I have never heard any screaming or shouting from them - they just seemed to be a really happy family. I am in total shock.”

Sandra Gwinnett, who runs Phoenix Academy MMA, said she first met Miss Upton last year when members of her group were giving a demonstration in Barnoldswick.

She said: "She came and asked me about Caleb joining and I got to know her from there.

“I introduced her to my friends and we organised a night out since then she has been to barbecues and things like that.

"They are a really nice, close family. Caleb and Harrison are always smiling.

“Sam and Nathan never really go out drinking unless it is to a barbecue and they can take the kids. Everything they do is for their children.

"Sam is really quiet and polite, a bit on the shy side unless you know her. Even when you offer her a lift somewhere she says no or offers you petrol money.

“Nathan is the same. He's quite quiet as well but he doesn't really have any friends around here."

Another neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: "The couple and their two wee babies are lovely.

“They are always doing things together. This has really shocked me. I can't believe it.

“I have lived here for 40 years and brought five kids up and never had a bit of bother. It's a lovely area."

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