POLICE have launched an investigation after an “unexpected” death on a Colchester estate.

Essex Police said officers were called to a property in Queen Mary Avenue, Berechurch, just after 10.30am on Wednesday where a man had been found dead.

A spokesman for the force said: “His death is being treated as unexpected pending further investigation.

Our inquiries are ongoing.”

An eyewitness said an ambulance crew remained at the scene until the evening while at least eight police cars attended.

Officers were still be at the home tonight.

A neighbour said: “I saw the ambulance and police cars as I got to the top of the road.

“I thought 'oh my god and what happened?'

“You just worry when you see this sort of thing.”

Another added: “I think it is quite sad. They tended to keep to themselves.”

Berechurch ward councillor Dave Harris said: “It’s always a shock and a sad day when a resident passes away in these circumstances, unexpected or any case.

“I trust the police will do their duty and job to find out what has gone on.

“I am just thinking of this poor man and his family at this point in the year, I also feel for the neighbours and residents that surround the area.

“It is a tight knit community."

“Any information or ideas about what has happened, then I would encourage people to contact the police and they can give that information anonymously if needed."