A nine-year-old boy has sadly died following an incident on a football field earlier this evening.

Police were called shortly after 5.05pm today to reports a child had been injured.

Although enquiries are still ongoing, at this time police believe the boy had been struck by lightning.

Emergency services attended and he was taken to hospital, but sadly died a short time later.

The boy's family have been informed and are being supported by officers.

Det Supt Nick Connaughton of Lancashire Police said: "This is a truly devastating incident and our thoughts are wholeheartedly with the family and friends of the young boy, who has passed away, at this very sad and distressing time."

Earlier road closures close to the fields off School Road, Blackpool have now been lifted.

Anybody with information about the incident, or who witnessed it and has not yet spoken to police, is asked to get in touch on 101, quoting log 1169 of May 11th.