A MAN’S body has been found at a popular Darlington nature reserve, police have confirmed.

The body of a 76-year-old local man was found in woodland near Brinkburn Pond, in Brinkburn Nature Reserve, off Hartington Way, this morning.

Inspector Neil Fuller, of Darlington police, said the circumstances of his death are under investigation, but his death is not being treated as suspicious.

The man’s next of kin have been told of the discovery.

A nearby resident, who did not wish to be named, said police arrived at the scene at around 7am.

“There was a couple of vans and a car. They came and took the body away at about 10am,” he said.

“There are lots of people who fish down there, lots of kids use the path to get to Longfield School.

“Lots of families live on the estate. Most people I have spoken to are just really shocked.”