POLICE have confirmed the body of a man pulled from the Blue Lagoon in Arlesey on Sunday afternoon had been decapitated. The body, which was found by two members of the public at 1.50pm is currently being examined by a Home Office pathologist at Bedford

POLICE have confirmed the body of a man pulled from the Blue Lagoon in Arlesey on Sunday afternoon had been decapitated.

The body, which was found by two members of the public at 1.50pm is currently being examined by a Home Office pathologist at Bedford Hospital.

The Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit is now investigating the death which is being treated as murder, led by DCI Jon Humphries.

The full extent of the man's injuries and the exact cause of death are still being determined. Police say the body was wrapped in various layers of packaging when it was discovered. The victim is a white man, with light brown body hair. A wheelbarrow, found with the body in the lake, has also been recovered and is being forensically examined for clues. DCI Humphries said: "Our suspicion is that the wheelbarrow was used to convey the body to the lake. We don't know exactly how long the body has been in there but if anyone has seen someone acting suspiciously in the area, or has information that may help identify the victim or his killers then please contact the police." A detailed search of the area surrounding the lake is now underway by scenes of crime examiners. Search teams are also preparing to search the entrance and exit routes to the Blue Lagoon.

Anyone with information should contact the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit on 01707 355959, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.