A BODY has been found in Poole Park this morning.

Police were alerted at 7.22am to reports that the body had been discovered near to the Ark.

All entrances and roads leading to Poole Park have been closed.

An investigation is underway to identify the body and the circumstances surrounding the death.

There are four police cars at the scene and a large area has been cordoned off.

Motorists are being advised to seek alternative routes.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "An investigation is underway to identify the body and the circumstances surrounding the death. The death is not believed to be suspicious."

A spokesperson for Poole Police said: "A cordon is in place at Poole Park, a small section at the North of the park is not open to the public at this time. The cordon is clearly marked to assist the public in avoiding the area to allow Police space to work effectively. Your patience is appreciated.

"A body was discovered this morning in undergrowth. At this stage it is not thought to be suspicious. More information will be provided in due course. There is nothing for the wider public to concern themselves with at this time."

They added: "If you were inside the Park and in the vicinity of the of the Ark or Cricket Pitch specifically between the hours of around 5am & 7am on Monday 5th October, Police would be interested to speak with you. Please contact us quoting 55200149546."

More follows.