A murder investigation has been launched after a body was found in Sussex.

Detectives searching for missing man Wayne Woodgate, from Tunbridge Wells, are now treating his disappearance as a murder investigation after the recovery of a body near Rye.

The 54-year-old had been reported missing on Thursday, October 17.

An appeal to help find him was previously issued by Kent Police, following a report he was last seen entering a van in Goods Station Road, Tunbridge Wells.

On Wednesday, October 23, officers attended a rural location in Peasmarsh, where a body was found.

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Formal identification has yet to take place, but the family of Mr Woodgate have been informed, Kent Police said.

A 59-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

To assist the investigation, police are appealing for dashcam footage from motorists who may have recently travelled on the A268 between Peasmarsh and Four Oaks.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Kimber said: ‘”We are specifically requesting any dashcam for journeys made between 5.15pm and 5.45pm on Thursday, October 17, and between 8.15am and 8.45am on Sunday, October 20. Footage, as well as CCTV and doorbell camera images can be uploaded though the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) using this online link.”

If you have other information which may assist the investigation call 01622 652006, quoting reference 46/179489/24.