A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man was found dead in a seaside guest house.

Five men have been arrested in connection with the death of 39-year-old Matthew Davis, who lived at the guest house in North Parade, Whitley Bay.

His body was found at the house on Friday evening and a post mortem examination was carried out earlier today.

All five men, aged between 65 and 26 years, are in police custody helping police with enquiries. The men are being questioned on suspicion of murder.

DCI Shelley Hudson, who is leading the Northumbria Police investigation, said: "Our enquiries have led us to believe Matthew was sadly murdered and we are treating his death as a murder investigation.

“We have arrested five men who are currently in custody and helping us with our enquiries.

"We have had a good response from the public so far however I am continuing to appeal for any witnesses and would like to hear from anyone who was in North Parade in the days leading up to Friday evening as they may have crucial information that can help with our enquiries."

A spokesman for the force said extra officers will remain in the area as police enquiries continue.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 739 170317 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.