A body has been found near to the High Level Bridge in Gateshead.

Police cordoned off part of the bridge and officers appeared to be carrying out a search in a nearby wooded area.

The man's death is currently being treated as unexplained.

Pipewellgate was closed while police carried out their investigations but it has now reopened and the cordon has been lifted.

A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said:

At just after 9am today (23 August) police were called to Buffalo Joes at Pipewellgate, Gateshead, following the discovery of a body.

“Pipewellgate has been closed and enquiries are ongoing.

“At this stage the death is being treated as unexplained but early indications suggest there is no third party involvement.”

We have a reporter at the scene to bring you the latest live updates.

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