Emergency services were called to The Rows in Harlow, Essex, after the man was discovered at about 21:15 GMT on Wednesday but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police have arrested three men – aged 43, 44 and 61 – on suspicion of murder and they remained in custody on Thursday.

Det Insp Stewart Eastbrook said: “Our investigation is in the early stages but our initial assessment is that his death is suspicious.”

Police are yet to release the age of the victim.Det Insp Eastbrook added: “My thoughts today are with the family and friends of the man who has died.

“Specialist officers and staff are carrying out a range of inquiries to build a picture of what led up to this man’s death and you are likely to see a police presence in the area.”