THE body of a woman was found washed up on a Co Down beach on Tuesday afternoon.
Police are investigating after the woman's body was discovered at the high water mark on the east end of Tyrella beach at 3.10pm.
A man walking his dog made the find.
It is thought the body was that of a partially-clothed middle-aged woman who had been in the water for at least 10 days.
It is understood bad storms in the area may have caused the body to be washed up on the beach.
SDLP MP Margaret Ritchie said she was stunned by the discovery.
"Today's news that a body of a lady has been discovered on Tyrella Beach has brought immense shock and sadness to the local community." she said.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with this lady's family and friends - to which I wish to extend my deepest sympathies. Once again, I commend the great work of our emergency services including the coastguard services at this tragic time."
Sinn Féin MLA Chris Hazzard expressed his condolences to the woman's family.
"The discovery of the body of a woman on the east end of Tyrella strand is a tragedy," he said.
"The local community has been shocked and saddened at this discovery.
"My thoughts are with the family and friends of this woman at this sad and difficult time."
