DETECTIVES have described the death of a man whose body was found in woodland as 'suspicious'.

The body of a white man was discovered by two members of the public at around 3.26pm on Monday, April 12, in woodland near to Flatts Lane Country Park in Middlesbrough.

Officers and forensic specialists remain at the scene whilst the investigation continues. Formal identification of the man has not yet taken place.

The Northern Echo: Police van and cordon in place in woodland near Flats Lane Country ParkPolice van and cordon in place in woodland near Flats Lane Country Park

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Murphy-King said: “We are treating the death as suspicious and have a team of detectives working to establish the circumstances surrounding the death.

“I would appeal for anyone with information or who may have witnesses anything suspicious in Flatts Lane woodland area to get in touch with the investigation team on 101 or through the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“Neighbourhood Policing Teams continue to patrol the area and there will be a police presence over the days to come. We will be providing further information on the man’s identity and developments in the investigation when we can.”

Police remain at the scene whilst the investigation continues.