Smothered baby: gran arrested

The family home in Lychgate Court

A WOMAN has been arrested on suspicion of suffocating her three-week-old grandson in Holts by sleeping on him.

Police were called to Lychgate Court at 5.20am on Friday after paramedics found the boy — named locally as George — unresponsive.

The baby was taken to the Royal Oldham Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

A 55-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by accidentally smothering the child while sleeping with him under the influence of alcohol or drugs. She has been released on police bail until October 1.

Neighbours said George lived with his grandmother, mother and four-year-old sister and moved into the street only two or three months ago.

A neighbour said: “I am shocked. He was lovely little boy. The grandmother was very proud.”

Det Insp Dave Moores said: “This is an absolutely tragic case. Any death of a baby is always extremely upsetting. An investigation is underway and we also have officers supporting family members at what is clearly a very distressing time for them.”