Murder suspect 'held for a month'

Care worker Philip Ellison was married with three sons

A man arrested on suspicion of murdering a social worker could be held for up to a month before he is properly questioned, police have said.

Philip Ellison, 47, a social care worker was stabbed and later died in an attack during a home visit to a house in Fulwood, Preston, on Monday.

A 51-year-old man arrested at the scene and is being held under the Mental Health Act.

He can be held for 28 days while his mental health is assessed.

A Lancashire police spokeswoman said: "A 51-year-old man has been detained under section 2 of the Mental Health Act and will be reassessed by doctors to see if he is fit to be interviewed by police.

Father of three

"The initial detention is for 28 days and in that time police may or may not get to talk to him.

"After that initial period he will be reassessed, if he is still not fit to be interviewed then a further order will be made for 6 months."

Lancashire Police confirmed they were not looking for anyone else in connection with the attack. A post-mortem examination is due later.

Mr Ellison, a Lancashire County Council worker from Leyland Road, Penwortham, Preston, leaves a widow and three sons.

He was visiting a council-run house for people who are readjusting to living in the community.