The 57-year-old was discovered by police at around 8.10pm on Monday at a property at Beach Court, just off East Beach.

A 51-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder.

As yet the cause of death is unknown but it is believed she suffered stab wounds and a home office post mortem examination will take place later today.

Police sealed off the area around the rear of the four-storey property on Monday morning, as well as a block of garages.

There were also two police patrol cars outside and officers guarding the door.

Detective Superintendent Andy Murphy from the Force Major Investigation Team said, "A murder investigation is now underway and we have a team of detectives working on this case to establish exactly what happened.

"I am appealing for anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious over the weekend around the flats at Beach View or heard anything to come forward."

Police have confirmed that there will be an increased police presence in the Lytham area to provide reassurance to members of the community.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Major Incident Room on 01253 293933 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.