A MURDER inquiry has been launched after a man was stabbed to death and another was seriously injured in a frenzied attack at a shop in Daubhill.

Police were called to Khawaja Halal Meat and Chicken Centre in St Helens Road, shortly after 6pm yesterday after receiving reports of a double stabbing.

Officers found two men in the shop with serious stab wounds.

They were taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital where Ahmed Adia, aged 61, who had been stabbed repeatedly, was pronounced dead on arrival.

The father-of-six, who is also a grandfather, of Quebec Street, Daubhill, was due to fly to South Africa and India today on holiday with his wife.

Retired textile worker Mr Adia had called into the shop to see his best friend Ismail Ali Adam who works there part-time when the knifeman burst in.

As the attacker repeatedly stabbed him, Mr Adam, aged 49, of Dijon Street, bravely tried to defend his friend and suffered deep cuts to his arms.

He is due to be transferred to Wythenshawe Hospital later today for plastic surgery and his condition is said to be serious but not life-threatening.

A third Asian man, aged 44, was arrested in connection with both stabbings near to the scene.

He is due to be questioned today by detectives investigating the incident which is believed to be connected to a long-standing family dispute.

Today the shop was closed and the area was sealed off with police tape. Scenes of crime and forensics officers have carried out a search of the premises.

Praising his father's bravery, Mr Adam's son Irfan said today: "My dad is definitely a hero. He is a very brave man. We are very grateful he is alive."

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "Shortly after 6pm yesterday, police were called to the scene and discovered two men with stab wounds.

"Both men were taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital, where one was pronounced dead on arrival.

"Officers arrested a third man near to the scene and he is currently being questioned."

Family at the home of Mr Adia were too distressed to speak today.