Two more people have been arrested in connection with the death of 19 Chinese cocklers who drowned in Morecambe Bay last week.

The men gave themselves up to police in the Lancashire area this afternoon.

Another five people are being questioned by police on suspicion of manslaughter after a number of raids yesterday.

Julia Hodson, the Assistant Chief Constable of Lancashire Police, said that the men who came forward were not among the 16 survivors of last Thursday's tragedy.

She said the police intend to execute more arrest warrants in the next couple of days, with the gangmasters being "top of the list" of people who are being targeted in the investigations.

She also said that the police have set up an identification commission because none of those who died have been identified to date.

"This matter will take weeks and possibly months. Obviously, we are still appealing for relatives, friends and colleagues to come forward," she said.

She said a casualty bureau had been set up for relatives and friends to call and it is being staffed by people who will be able to translate for those who cannot speak English.

She confirmed that the cause of death in each case was drowning.

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Gradwell said that investigations were being slowed by communication problems.

He said many of the deceased may have been in the country only a couple of months.

The tragedy, which left 17 men and two women dead, unfolded on Thursday night.