A POLICE investigation is underway after the discovery of a body in Pudsey this morning.

A police cordon was put in place on land off Pudsey Road, near Tawny Beck and Ridge View.

Emergency services, including ambulances, a large number of police cars and a CID van, could be seen at the scene.

This afternoon, police remained at the scene and officers were taking away bags containing potential evidence.

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "At 11.39am this morning, police were contacted by the ambulance service who were attending a report of a male found unconscious near to the junction of Pudsey Road and Ridge View in Pudsey.

"He was pronounced dead at the scene.

"A scene is currently in place and enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances."

Residents have reacted with shock after the discovery.

One Pudsey Road resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “I realised there was an incident this morning because there was a crime scene.
“Unfortunately it’s not good news.
“I had a look but it’s hidden by the trees.
“The site was a stable at one time but it hasn’t been that for a while.”

Another resident said: “I went out to collect the post this morning and I saw all the police cars. 
“It’s unusual to have so many police cars around here. It’s normally quiet.”

Tawny Beck resident Kevin Pitchforth said: “I came back home at 11.30am this morning and I seen all the police cars parked up. I wondered what on earth had happened. 
“It really shocked me that there was such a huge police presence.
“I couldn’t believe it. It was a major incident.”