A MAN died in the early hours after being found by police on the M23.

Officers were called to reports of concern for safety for a man on the A25 near Redhill at 6.30am yesterday.

They arrived to find a man in his 30s on the M23 near Gatwick Airport. The man was pronounced dead shortly after police attended.

Sussex Roads Police officers were called to assist and the motorway was closed until shortly after 1pm as emergency teams worked at the scene.

An investigation has now been launched into the incident.

"At this stage we do not believe that there is any third party involvement or suspicious circumstances involved in his death," a  Surrey Police spokesman said.

"The matter has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous contact between the man and Surrey Police."

Chief Inspector Fash Mohammadi described it as a "tragic incident" and extended his thoughts to the man's friends and family.

He also thanked motorists for their patience while the road closure remained in place.

"We are asking anyone who may have information which could assist the investigation to get in touch with us," Ch Insp Mohammadi said.

The investigation is ongoing and Surrey Police say no further details can be provided at this time.

Anyone able to provide information which could help officers establish the circumstances surrounding the man's death is being urged to contact police online or by calling 101, quoting incident  reference number P21010971.