A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man's body was found in a park.

Police were called at 1.21am today and remain at the scene following the discovery at Russell Howard Park in Basingstoke.

DC Inspector Liz Williams said: "“We are still in the very early stages of this investigation.

"I would appeal to anyone who was in the area early this morning or who knows anything about this incident to contact us as soon as possible.

"There is likely to be disruption in the local area throughout the day so I would ask that people are patient while we carry out our enquiries today."

Anyone with information can call 101, quoting reference number 44180066746, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.