Police have launched a murder investigation after a man died in Bishop Auckland earlier today.

Officers were called to Tenters Street shortly after 5am today following reports of an assault.

Read more: Bishop Auckland incident LIVE: Street cordoned off by police

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Paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service also attended, but sadly a 40-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

A man in his forties has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

A police cordon remains in place around the scene and people are being urged to avoid the area while officers carry out their enquiries.

Detective Superintendent Lee Gosling, who is leading the investigation, said: “This investigation is in the very early stages and we are working to establish exactly what has happened.

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“I would like to reassure residents that we do believe this to be an isolated incident and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it.

“There will be a high police presence in the area while officers conduct further enquiries. If you witnessed the incident or have any information that could help our investigation then please speak to one of these officers.

“Alternatively, you can call us on 101, quoting incident number 58 of October 9 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”