THE heartbroken family and friends of a man found dead at a house in Pendle have today described him as a ‘sociable and loveable’ person.

Police said they discovered the ‘heavily bloodstained’ body of Steven Sheppard, 47, after being called to a house in Portland Street, Colne.

A post-mortem examination has revealed that Mr Sheppard, of Winewall Lane, Winewall, died of multiple head and chest injuries.

Three people, including a man and woman from Colne, aged 40 and 49, and a 34-year-old woman from Padiham, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Today, family and friends of the suspected murder victim paid tribute in a joint statement.

They said: “Steven was a very sociable and loveable person by all who knew him.

“He enjoyed driving and particularly enjoyed the outdoors.

"He also enjoyed spending time with his friends and family.

“Steven was a loving father, son and brother. We will miss Steven dearly from mum Dorothy, son Mash and all his family and friends.”

Mr Sheppard’s body was discovered at the mid-terrace property at around 7.15pm on Monday.

Neighbours said a couple had lived at the house for a number of years.

A van, understood to have belonged to Mr Sheppard, was parked outside the house, where it is thought he had been drinking with the couple.

The three people arrested in connection with the death remain in police custody, where they are being questioned by detectives.

Anyone with information about the incident should call police on 08451 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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