North East police have launched an investigation after a man's body was found.

Northumberland Police say that officers were alerted at 8.20pm yesterday (Friday, January 20) by the ambulance service following a report of concern for the welfare of a man in the Brigham Avenue area of Kenton in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Officers were immediately deployed and found a man, aged in his 50s, lying on a grassy area. He was sadly confirmed as deceased at the scene and his next of kin have been informed.

The Northern Echo: Police combing the area near where a man's body was found in Kenton.Police combing the area near where a man's body was found in Kenton. (Image: North News)

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Police are currently treating the death as unexplained and have launched a full investigation into the circumstances.

Residents in the area can expect an increased police presence as officers carry out a range of enquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Brooks, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is clearly a serious incident that has resulted in a man’s death.

“A full investigation has now been launched as we look to determine the full facts surrounding his death and I would ask that the public supports us with our enquiries.

The Northern Echo: A cordon is in place while police conduct their investigation.A cordon is in place while police conduct their investigation. (Image: North News)

“If you were in this area last night and saw anything that roused suspicion, or believe you have any information that may assist our investigation, please come forward and let us know.

“Our enquiries remain at an early stage and we are keeping an open mind as to what may have occurred. Your information, no matter how insignificant you feel it may be, could be crucial to our investigation.

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“A number of officers will remain in the area throughout the course of the day as they carry out enquiries into this incident. Anybody with concerns is encouraged to speak to an officer on duty.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of Northumbria Police's website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20230120-0995.