THE death of an 18-year-old man who was found collapsed in a street is being treated as ‘unexplained’ by police.

Officers on patrol discovered the body of Ryan Anderton, in Kay Street, Rawtenstall, outside Rent Smart letting agency.

Paramedics were called but the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.

Last night two men, aged 25 and 32, were being questioned by police after being arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detectives were yesterday carrying out forensic tests at a nearby building.

A police cordon, errected in the early hours of Saturday morning along Kay Street, was also still in place.

Police said a post-mortem examination carried out on Saturday afternoon had been inconclusive and failed to determine how Ryan died.

Specially trained family liasion officers are supporting Ryan’s family.

In a statement released by the police his mother Catrina Anderton and grandmother Nina Anderton said: "Ryan was studying finance and accountancy at Burnley College and was hoping to go onto university next year.

"He was a kind-hearted lad, well liked and loved by everyone who knew him.

“He will be sorely missed and forever in our hearts.”

Det Supt Neil Hunter, who is leading the investigation, said: “Sadly an officer discover the body of Ryan Anderton on the footpath in Kay Street, Rawtenstall in the early hours of Saturday morning. “We are still treating his death as unexplained and an investigation is underway to discover what has happened.

“We believe Ryan had been out drinking in the pubs around Rawtenstall and I would like to speak to anyone who saw him or talked to him that night.

“I would also like to speak to anyone who was in Kay Street around 3am, whether that be revellers on their way home or taxi drivers.”

Anthony Kelly, 22, also of Kay Street, said: “I came home from a night out about 3am that morning and I didn’t see a thing.

“In fact I thought the flat being searched by the police was empty.

“I was really shocked when I got up and saw all the police and the cordon. We don’t usually get much bother around here.”

Despite Kay Street being closed officers allowed access to Rawtenstall Cricket Club all weekend.

The cordon forced a number of businesses to remain closed on Saturday.

Andy Nuttall, Rawtenstall Cricket Club manager, said: “It’s shocking to hear of a body being discovered anywhere but especially when it’s on your doorstep.

“I closed up here at 2am on Saturday and walked the short distance home and it was all quiet. I only live close by.

“It is a realshame for the lad’s family.”

A single bunch of colourful tulips had been left as a tribute to Ryan close to the scene.

The note said: “I’m going to miss you loads.

“I can’t believe all the mischief we used to get up to as kids.

“You were a top lad and you are going to be missed deeply by everyone. One day we will meet each other again.”