A MAJOR police investigation is underway near Bradford on Avon this morning following the discovery of a body in a canal.

Officers were called to the Kennet and Avon Canal at Winsley Hill, near Limpley Stoke, after the body was seen in the water just before 8am.

Police said the death is being treated as unexplained.

A spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that the body of a man has been found this morning in the Kennet & Avon Canal near Winsley, Bradford on Avon.

“Formal identification has not yet taken place and our enquiries continue. The death is being treated as unexplained at this time.

“Officers are investigating the full circumstances surrounding his death and ask that anyone with information call Wiltshire Police on 101, as they may have information which could assist the investigation.”

An Avon and Somerset fire appliance from Bath was sent to the scene, followed by Dorset & Wiltshire fire officer and specialist water rescue units from Trowbridge and Chippenham.

The body was recovered from the canal near the canal bridge at Winsley Hill.

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