A murder investigation has been launched after a body was found in the River Thames near Walton this morning.

Police have arrested a 47-year-old man on suspicion of murder after the discovery in the stretch of water alongside Russell Road, Shepperton, at around 2am.

Investigating officers are ‘keeping an open mind into what may have occurred’.

Detective Chief Inspector Paddy Mayers said: “At this stage the deceased man has not been formally identified, and we are looking into the circumstances that led to him being found in the water.

“The team and I are focused on a number of enquiries to try and establish what has happened, and will be carrying out various searches in the area, as well as making house to house visits.

“We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in Shepperton last night, particularly between 10pm and 1am.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting P17133892, or contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.