DETECTIVES probing the deaths of a family of four have revealed the father died from hanging at least a day after his wife and teenage daughters were stabbed to death in their beds.

Post mortem examinations carried out on all four members of the Lad family have confirmed that father Jitendra Lad, 49, died from compression of the neck, caused by hanging.

Results of the examination suggested the time of his death was Monday.

However, it is believed the rest of his family sustained fatal stab wounds "at an earlier point during the weekend", according to West Yorkshire Police.

Medics confirmed that Duksha Lad, 44 and her daughters Trisha, 19 and Nisha, 16, all died as a result of stab wounds and police confirmed all three died in their beds.

Det Supt Simon Atkinson, from West Yorkshire Police's Protective Services (Crime), said: "I have spoken to the family members this evening and updated them on the results of the post mortem examinations.

"They are continuing to come to terms with what took place at Blackberry Way, which has robbed a family of two generations, and specially trained officers are supporting them at this very difficult time.

"Enquiries are continuing into the circumstances leading to the incident and we will not be drawn on speculation while our investigation is ongoing.

"I would reiterate that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths and neighbourhood officers have increased patrols in the area to offer reassurance to local people."

By yesterday afternoon there were about 50 floral tributes laid outside the property, as well as cards and candles.

Some tributes were addressed to students Trisha and Nisha, while others were dedicated to all four family members.

One read: "Trish-Nish. You were one of the best friends I could ever ask for."

Another said: "To Nisha and Trisha, you will always be in our thoughts, love Hari."

One mourner wrote: "This loss is beyond tragic. I am deeply saddened and shocked by your passing.

"We have lost some of the kindest, gentlest people anyone could meet."

There was also a bouquet of flowers from Clayton and Fairweather Green councillors Michelle Swallow, Carol Thirkill and Sinead Engel, as well as ones from cousins of the family and one from an address on nearby Rosehip Rise.

A Volkswagen Golf that had been parked on the driveway of the detached house had been removed by yesterday lunchtime. The police cordon had been moved up to and surrounded the house and its garden.