Police have issued a new statement in relation to the double stabbing at a Marks and Spencer store.

Officers investigating the incident, which took place inside a store in Burnley town centre on Wednesday morning and for which a 57-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, have asked people not to speculate about the motivation behind the attack as they deal with further lines of enquiry. 

On Wednesday afternoon a spokesperson for the police said: "We are continuing to investigate the incident at the Marks and Spencer store in Burnley where two women were stabbed.

"Their injuries are thankfully not life threatening and a man has been arrested

"Officers are out and about in the town centre so if you have any information or concerns then please do approach and speak to us.

"We would kindly ask that you don't speculate about the motivation behind the incident - this will form part of our enquiries and we will continue to update you as and when we are able."

Police were called to the high street retailer on St James Street in Burnley town centre at 9.25am on Wednesday.

Two women were taken to hospital with serious stab wounds and a 57-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

A cordon was set up around the store, and people were advised to avoid the area.

An M&S spokesperson said: “We are incredibly grateful for the emergency services that responded to this incident and the two people who were injured are now in good care.

"We are also supporting the police with their investigation.

"The store is currently closed and our focus is on ensuring that our colleagues in Burnley receive all the support they need.”