Police are currently present in Billingham and a murder enquiry is underway after the body of a man was found inside an address in Kennedy Gardens earlier today (Thursday 25th May).

Emergency services were called to the flat at around 6.40am where very sadly the man, who is in his 50s, was found deceased.

His next of kin have been informed and they have been offered specialist support.

Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this very difficult time.

Two men, 44 and 56, have been arrested on suspicion of murder and they are in custody awaiting questioning.

We would reassure the local community that there is not believed to be any risk to the wider public.

Officers remain at various locations across the town conducting enquiries and anyone with information or concerns is urged to speak to them in confidence.

We would also appeal for anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious within the flats at Kennedy Gardens from yesterday evening into today to contact Cleveland Police via the 101 number. Please quote ref 100246.

If you don’t want to speak to police, information can be passed anonymously to www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phoning 0800 555 111.