A MAN'S body has been found at an animal rehoming centre near Southampton.

Pictures from Bubb Lane show at least two police cars parked outside the Blue Cross centre.

One worker who lived on site said he and a colleague discovered the body while it was still dark in the early hours of Monday morning and said the discovery was “awful.”

Mandy Jones, director of rehoming at Blue Cross, said: “We were deeply saddened to receive this the news and extend our sympathies.

"We are currently focussing our attention on our team at the Southampton rehoming centre, making sure everyone in need of support during this time is well looked after.

"The centre will remain closed for the moment.”

Police have yet to inform the family of the deceased.

The manager of the rehoming centre declined to comment but a spokesperson for the charity confirmed that the rehoming centre will be closed today.

A Hampshire Police statement says: "Police were called at 8.11am this morning after the body of a man was discovered at Bubb Lane, Botley.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious.

"A file is being prepared for the Coroner."

A South Central Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “We were called at 8.06am to a medical emergency on Bubb Lane in Botley and sent a Rapid response vehicle, ambulance crew and officer.

“Sadly, one patient was confirmed deceased at the scene “