A COMMUNITY has spoken of its shock as police launched a murder inquiry into the death of a 45-year-old man.

Police confirmed that the man was found dead at a house in Park Street South, Castletown, Sunderland, early on Saturday morning.

Detectives were last night continuing to question an 18-year-old man in connection with the death.

The victim, whose name has not been released by police, was described by neighbours as a "quiet and friendly" man who spent a lot of time with his son.

Neighbours last night said they knew little about the man's background, because he had not lived in the street very long.

Concrete worker Alan Tansey, 50, said: "They kept themselves to themselves, but I saw the dad coming down the street last week with a can of beer.

"They were close because they were always together. I live next door and the noise of the police coming on Saturday morning woke me up.

"None of the other neighbours called them, and there was no noise, so I don't how they knew to come.

"I was looking out the window and I saw someone come out with a blanket or coat on his head with his hands cuffed behind his back.

"I still can't believe it."

Hannah Stridiron was also awoken by the police activity.

She said: "I am a very light sleeper and I heard doors slamming, so I looked outside. The forensic officers had their white suits on and I realised it must be something serious.

"They were a nice couple of people and very sociable. They would always say hello.

"You would see them go by with cans of beer. That was their life."

Police taped off the house in the early hours of Saturday, and a police officer guarded the property.

Shop assistant Kelsie Sanderson, 23, said: "I was shocked when I woke and looked at the window and saw all the police and then heard what had happened.

"You don't expect something like this to happen on your own doorstep.

"They are a quiet family and never bothered anyone. They seemed very nice and were always together."

Last night, police would not confirm reports that the dead man had previously served a four-and-a-half year sentence for manslaughter.