WILTSHIRE Police are appealing for information following the murder of a man in Swindon.

Shortly before midnight last night a man was found dead on a cycle path which runs from the Town Centre to Rodbourne.

Although formal identification has not been completed police believe that they know the identity of the man and he is believed to be a local man, aged in his sixties. Enquiries are ongoing to locate his next of kin.

A police spokesman said: "We are treating the death as murder and the Major Crime Investigation Team are working on the case. The area has been cordoned off and forensic officers are at the scene.

"It is likely that the cycle path will be closed for some time as officers carry out their investigation."

Detective Chief Inspector Sean Memory said: ‘We commenced a murder investigation and are appealing for anyone who was in the area between 10:30 pm-1230 am last night to contact us as they may have vital information to assist the investigation."

Superintendent Andrew Carr said: "We understand that the public will be concerned and we can reassure the community that we are conducting a thorough and detailed investigation and increased patrols are taking place in the area. Please contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team if you have any concerns."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101.