A body has been found in woodland behind a library as officers are treating the death as ‘unexplained’ and forensic units have been spotted on the site.

The incident began in Gateshead at around 6am this morning when officers received reports of concern for the welfare of a man.

READ MOIRE: LIVE: Body found in woodland as police cordon up with forensics on scene - updates

(Image: Picture: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

A body was later found on Shipcote Lane and emergency services confirmed the man was deceased.

Officers say they are currently treating the man’s death as suspicious and a full investigation has been launched.

Pictures from the incident show a forensic tent has been erected along with a cordon in the area behind Gateshead Central Library.

(Image: Picture: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

Police area appealing for anyone with information that could assist officers or concerns to get in touch.

They can do so by using the live chat function on their website here

The full police quote can be read below:

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “At 6.10am today (Sunday) we received a report of concern for the welfare of a man in the Shipcote Lane area of Gateshead.

“Emergency services attended the scene and the man was confirmed as deceased. Officers are currently treating the man’s death as unexplained and a full investigation has been launched.

“A police cordon is in place and officers are in the area to carry out enquiries. Anyone with any concerns is encouraged to speak to an officer on duty.

“Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is asked to contact police by sending a direct message, using the live chat function on our website or by visiting https://www.northumbria.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ quoting reference NP-20240825-0241.”