POLICE have launched an inquiry into the death of a Sardinian man after test results proved suspicious.

The body of Stefano Pischedda, 26, was found at his home at Barker Road, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough, on October 30.

While police did not initially get involved in the discovery, Middlesbrough detectives said last night they were treating the death as suspicious after hearing the results of post-mortem examination tests.

Detective Inspector Ian Garrett, who is leading the inquiry, said: "There is some doubt as to the exact circumstances of Mr Pischedda's death, which we are trying to resolve.

"Until the situation becomes clearer, we are treating his death as suspicious."

Police are particularly anxious to trace two taxi drivers who were in the area on the night the body was found.

The first picked up two Italian men in Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, between 8pm and 9pm, and took them to Barker Road, in Linthorpe.

The other picked up a man and a woman in Linthorpe Road, between 11pm and 11.30pm, and took them to Barker Road.

Anyone with information which could help with the inquiry is asked to contact police on (01642) 303133.