British police have arrested a 31-year-old man on suspicion of murder after an elderly man was stabbed to death in east London.

Police say the 71-year-old was rushed to hospital on Sunday night, but pronounced dead not long after.

Two children - including a two-year-old boy - were also found with stab wounds at the Tower Hamlets address, while a third child suffered minor injuries.

All three children were taken to hospital where they are currently in a stable condition.

Police say the 31-year-old man was found with self-inflicted wounds and was also taken to hospital.

He has been arrested on suspicion of murder, and will be interviewed by detectives when he is discharged.

Police have not disclosed whether there is a relationship between the 31-year-old and the victims - and say they remain "open minded" about a potential motive.