A man’s body has been found in an Essex river in circumstances police are currently treating as “unexplained”.

East Anglian Daily Times: Police investigate the scene where a body was found in the River Brain in Whitham. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNPolice investigate the scene where a body was found in the River Brain in Whitham. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

Essex Police were called to the river Brain in Witham at 9.40am yesterday morning and remain at the scene carrying out investigation work.

Witnesses said divers were seen in the area, off Powers Hall End, at around 11am today.

A police spokesman said: “Police officers are currently in Chipping Hill, Witham, following reports of a man’s body being found in the river.

“Enquiries are continuing and the death is currently being treated as unexplained.”

East Anglian Daily Times: Police investigate the scene where a body was found in the River Brain in Witham. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNPolice investigate the scene where a body was found in the River Brain in Witham. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

A spokesman from the East of England Ambulance Service said it was called at 9.50am on Friday, and sent an ambulance crew, rapid response vehicle, ambulance officer and hazardous area response team.

The spokesman added: “Sadly, nothing could be done for the patient.”

Police have said that local enquiries will be taking place this evening, including door to door enquiries.

Officers are appealing for anyone who saw anything unusual in the area from 3pm on Thursday onwards to get in touch.

They are also keen to speak to anyone who may have seen a man in his 20s or 30s in the area wearing black jogging bottoms and red trainers.

It is possible he may not have been wearing a top.

Call police on 101 with any information.