Police have launched a murder investigation after a man was found dead in a property on City Road.

Although formal identification is yet to take place, officers believe the body is that of 43-year-old Dean Sawyer.

Police say the body, which was found at around 11.45am on Sunday (November 26), lay undetected for up to two weeks and a post mortem has revealed he was the victim of a serious assault.

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They are now appealing for help in tracing the victim’s movements and would like to hear from anyone who knew him and his routines.

Detective Inspector Mike Buck, of the major crime investigation team, said: “A full investigation is being carried out into the circumstances of this tragic incident in which a man has lost his life.

“Sadly, Mr Sawyer’s body lay undiscovered for up to two weeks. His next of kin have been informed and specially trained officers are offering support to his family.

“A post mortem examination has been carried out and it’s clear he’d been the victim of a serious assault.

“As part of our investigation, we’re keen to talk to anyone who knew Mr Sawyer and who may have seen him recently, or have information about his recent activities.

“We’d also like to speak to anyone who knew his routines and who could help us build a picture of the lifestyle he led.

“If you have any information, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, please call us as it could prove to be vital.”

He added: “House-to-house enquiries have been carried out in the local area, while specialist crime scene investigators have examined the property where his body was found.

“We’re aware this will have an impact on the wider community and would encourage anyone with concerns to contact their local neighbourhood team.”

Anyone who knew Dean Sawyer, remembers seeing him in the past fortnight, or has any information to pass on can contact police by calling 101 and quoting the reference number 5217271092.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit: www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.