A TEENAGE boy fatally stabbed in the early hours has been named locally as Reece Tansey.

Today, heartbroken friends of the 15-year-old say they will be organising a balloon release in his memory.

A police cordon is currently in place in Walker Avenue, Bolton, Greater Manchester, as detectives launch a murder inquiry.

The Northern Echo: Reece TanseyReece Tansey

Balloons are due to be released in the Harper Green fields at around 5pm, reports our sister title The Bolton News.

A post on Facebook announced the tribute stating: "At Harper green field today a few close friends of Reece Tansey has decided to buy a bunch of balloons to set off for him."

An invite was extended to family and friends.

Tributes to the schoolboy have been flooding in on social media.

One heartfelt tribute read: "rip reece, i honestly can't believe what i'm writing right now,my heart is in bits. i just can't believe what has happened to you , put down your knives taking innocent peoples lives!! I love you always reece hope you're okay up there xx

The Northern Echo:

Another said: "Rest easy mate love you"

One wrote: "R.I.P I actually can’t believe I’m writing this I hope your okay up there I’m gonna miss you, love you little man".

Police were called at around 4.43am to reports of a stabbing on Walker Avenue.

A teenage boy was taken to hospital with several stab wounds but sadly died from his injuries, despite the best efforts of emergency services.

The victim had knocked on the door of a nearby house for help following the incident.

No arrests have yet been made and detectives are carrying out a number of lines of enquiry.

Detective Superintendent Chris Bridge, of Wigan and Bolton Districts said: "This incident will understandably be a huge shock to the community and our thoughts are with the boy's family at this awful time.

"These are very early stages of our investigation but we would like to reassure the public that we are doing all we can to piece together what happened and find those responsible.

"There will be an increased police presence in the area whilst we carry out a number of lines of enquiry and anyone concerned in the local neighbourhood can speak to our officers.

"I would urge anyone who may have information or witnessed anything in the area to come forward. Even the smallest information may be crucial to our investigation."

"Anyone with information should call 101 quoting incident 359 of 04/05/2021 or report online at gmp.police.uk.

"Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."