A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the discovery of a man's body on a pavement.

Police were called to the scene around 11pm last night after the alarm was raised when the man thought to live locally was found lying on the ground.

The discovery was made on the Isle of Wight in North Street, Sandown at 2.40am. Police have since closed both Cross Street and North Street as the investigation continues.

Paramedics called in police just after 11pm. Despite attempts to resuscitate him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The area of Cross Street and North Street remains closed while specialist officers conduct their enquiries at the scene.

A post mortem examination is due to take place today. Police say the death is currently being treated as unexplained.

Although formal identification has yet to take place, the deceased is believed to be a 44-year-old local man. His next of kin has been informed.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Heelan, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are still in the very early stages of our investigation and are keeping an open mind about what has happened. At the moment, we are treating the cause of this man’s death as unexplained.

“We’ve already had a good response from members of the public who were in the Cross Street area last night and I would like to thank them for their assistance.

“I’d also like to thank people for their patience while the roads are closed. Please be assured we are working as quickly as we can but it is vital we carry out all necessary enquiries at the scene to ensure a thorough investigation into this man’s death.”

A 50-year-old man from Sandown has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in police custody.

Anyone with any information should contact the Hampshire Major Investigation Team at Newport police station on 101 or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.