A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man was stabbed to death on a night out.

Paul Gilligan was knifed twice at the Pepper Alley pub in Crown Street, Bolton.

It was one of five stabbing incidents in Bolton in just 48 hours and it has led to fresh calls to tackle the nationwide knife crime epidemic.

Mr Gilligan, aged 31, of Thirlmere Drive, Little Hulton, was stabbed at 12.50am today and he was taken by paramedics to the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Doctors battled in vain to save Mr Gilligan's life following the incident on Saturday and a 19-year-old man from Bolton has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

He remains in police custody for questioning.

The pub was cordoned off today to allow forensic examiners to search for clues.

The cordon was widened in the afternoon to take in much of the surrounding area, including part of Bradshawgate and Princess Street where the teenager was arrested.

Flowers were being left at the scene by family and friends throughout the day, affectionately referring to Mr Gilligan as Gilly.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Mr Gilligan's death but it is understood he had been in an argument with his attacker.

Police are trying to piece together Mr Gilligan's last minutes and would not say where on his body he was stabbed. They have not said whether or not a weapon had been recovered.

Today, officers carried out a search of litter bins, seats and under parked vehicles in the area.

Call Bolton police on 0161 8565740 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.