DETECTIVES investigating the discovery of a torso on a Hampshire beach have identified the victim.

The torso of 30-year-old David Guy was found by a group of foreign students wrapped in a black bin liner on Southsea beach, Portsmouth, in front of The Pyramids, shortly before 5.30pm on Tuesday, Hampshire Constabulary said.

The lower half of what appears to be Mr Guy's body was found on the rocks at low tide in front of Castle Field, Southsea, by police search teams shortly after 8am yesterday, a police spokeswoman said.

Police said Mr Guy had no fixed address but was believed to have been staying in the Southsea area before his death.

Detective Chief Inspector Dick Pearson, the senior investigating officer, said: ''Now we have identified the victim as David Guy, we are keen to gather as much information as possible about him.

''Did you know Mr Guy or any of his friends or associates? If so, we would like to hear from you.

''Even the smallest piece of information which may seem insignificant could be a crucial part of this investigation.''

A post-mortem examination conducted on Wednesday evening failed to determine a cause of death but police believe Mr Guy suffered a ''sustained and violent assault''.

A 46-year-old man from Southsea who was arrested on Thursday night on suspicion of murder remains in police custody. Magistrates have granted detectives a further 32 hours to question him.

A police spokeswoman said Richmond Road in Southsea remained sealed off as the area was of interest to detectives investigating the incident. She said a cordon was likely to remain in place for some time.

Hampshire Constabulary thanked residents and nearby businesses for their co-operation.

Mr Pearson said: ''My team is in close contact with local policing teams and officers from the Safer Neighbourhoods team will continue to conduct reassurance patrols in the area.

''There is no indication of further risk to the community; however this is being continually reassessed.''