POLICE have sealed off a Co Down beach after the body of a man was found early this morning.
It is understood a man walking his dog on the beach at Newcastle discovered the body at around 5am.
The promenade in the town has been sealed off.
A PSNI statement said: "Police are examining the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a man's body on the beach in Newcastle.
"The body was found by a member of the public shortly before 5am."
SDLP MLA Colin McGrath has appealed for information.
"The local community are in shock this morning, but I have no doubt they will rally together to support one another at this time," he said.
"I would encourage anyone who may have information to contact the PSNI."
