A body has been removed from a cordoned-off alley following a major emergency response to a concern for welfare incident in Southampton.

Residents say that eight police cars, an ambulance, and the fire service all attended the incident next to the Millbrook footbridge in Southampton.

Initially, a large section of Foundry Lane and Paynes Road was cordoned off, though this was later scaled down to just the footbridge and a nearby alley leading to Marchwood Road.

The police cordon on Foundry LaneThe police cordon on Foundry Lane (Image: NQ)

A red Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service tent had been put up in the garden of one of the houses leading into the alley.

Later in the afternoon, a private ambulance belonging to a funeral director arrived, and a body covered in a blanket was taken away.

Police have confirmed that a man in his 40s was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family have been informed and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We were called shortly after midday today (Monday 7 April) to reports of the concern for the welfare of a man on Foundry Lane.

"Officers have attended and remain at the location alongside our colleagues from South Central Ambulance Service."

One resident who saw the emergency services arrive said: "The emergency services all arrived very quietly.

"It was only when I went out shopping that I realised something was going on. It was all a bit sudden. It was all pretty hectic for about 30 minutes."

Residents have reacted with shock and sadness to the news.

Another said: "It is a sad thing to happen right next door to where you live.

"I was just walking through to lie in the park for a few hours to get some sun. I am definitely shocked to see it.

"I have been here for four years and never seen anything like this."

Another resident said she was shocked and saddened to hear the news. She said: "It is just very sad. Anyone dying is sad. It is a shame and shocking to hear.

"If they have family, it is sad for them as well, nobody wants to hear it."

The station is part of the Southampton-Eastleigh-Romsey-Salisbury line. Several people walked across the bridge ignoring the police tape.

Hampshire police have been approached for more information.