A nine-year-old boy has died after apparently being struck by lightning, police in Blackpool have said.

The boy had been on a football field just after 5pm on Tuesday when a thunderstorm hit.

He was initially taken to hospital with serious injuries, according to the Blackpool Gazette, but police later confirmed he had died.

The ground is home to Spirit of Youth Junior Football Club, which said: “It is with deepest regret that we have to report the news that the young boy who was struck by lightning earlier this evening has sadly passed away.

“The tragic incident happened on our home ground at Common Edge playing fields but it was not during a club training session.

“As a club, we are heartbroken and we offer our deepest condolences to the boy’s family.

“Spirit of Youth is a family and we are entrenched in the local community, and we will give whatever support is required to both the family and to those that were with him at the time.”

Police said: “Although inquiries are still ongoing, at this time we believe the boy had been struck by lightning.

“Emergency services attended and he was taken to hospital, but sadly died a short time later.

“The boy’s family have been informed and are being supported by officers.”

Detective Superintendent Nick Connaughton, of Lancashire Police, said: “This is a truly devastating incident and our thoughts are wholeheartedly with the family and friends of the young boy, who has passed away, at this very sad and distressing time.”

Road closures in place following the incident have now been lifted.

Anybody with information who has not yet spoken to police can call 101, quoting log 1169 of 11 May

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