Murder investigation launched after body of man found in Somerset

A murder investigation has been launched after a body of a man was found in a garden in Somerset.

A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body was found in Edithmead, near Highbridge.

Police were called to a property just after 2.30pm on Thursday 25 June. The victim's next of kin has been informed.

Senior Investigating Officer DCI Mark Almond added: "We’ve informed the victim’s next of kin and will be giving them as much support as they need.

"A cordon is in place so we can carry out our enquiries at the scene and there’s likely to be a significant police presence in the area over the coming days.

"Neighbourhood officers will be carrying out additional patrols and I’d urge anyone with concerns or worries to stop an officer and speak to them.

"We’d also appeal to anyone with information about the events leading up to the man’s death to call the Major Crime Investigation Team on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5220139224."

Edithmead is a small, rural community near to both Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea. The man's death and circumstances around it have caused great shock and sadness among people in the local area.

Audrey and Rod Downing regularly cycle past the house on Edithmead Lane. They said: "It was a great shock, very sad. It sobers you up, really, thinking about it."

Avon and Somerset Police says there will be a large police presence in the area over the coming days.