An investigation continued today into the death of a 12-year-old Eastbourne boy.

The youngster, a pupil at Cavendish School, was found at his family's home in Longland Road, Old Town.

Police have refused to confirm the circumstances surrounding the boy's death but it is believed that he hanged.

A quick response paramedic vehicle was first on the scene shortly after 5.30pm on Monday followed by an ambulance and police officers.

Repeated efforts to revive the boy failed and he was taken by ambulance to the Eastbourne District General Hospital, where he was declared dead.

A post-mortem examination was carried out yesterday but police have not yet released results, which are expected to reveal the boy died as a result of hanging.

His identification has not yet been officially released.

Two uniformed police officers were placed on guard outside the family's terraced home in the quiet road, opposite the recreation ground, barring access to visitors.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: "At this stage the circumstances surrounding the death are unknown and the police are working with the coroner to investigate events surrounding this incident."

Neighbours say they were shocked by the news.

David Rothwell said he had not heard much detail about what had happened but said the death was "terribly sad".

The boy's family was said to be devastated.