A post mortem has been unable to confirm the cause of death of a man whose body was found in the Blue Lagoon at Arlesey on Sunday afternoon. But police said today it is believed he was decapitated after he died. Forensic tests are due to be carried ou

A post mortem has been unable to confirm the cause of death of a man whose body was found in the Blue Lagoon at Arlesey on Sunday afternoon.

But police said today it is believed he was decapitated after he died.

Forensic tests are due to be carried out on the wheelbarrow found in the water close to the body, along with the packaging in which the body was wrapped, which is currently being dried in sterile conditions before it can be examined.

Officers working on what has become known as Operation Pinlock will also be examining CCTV from the local area and carrying out house to house inquiries close to the lagoon.

DCI Jon Humphries, from the Beds and Herts Major Crime Unit, who is leading the murder investigation, said today: "We are still trying to establish how long this man was lying in the water before he was discovered.

"We know lots of people use the Blue Lagoon for fishing and sailing as well as dog walking and general recreation. If anyone who walks regularly walks round the lake can remember seeing anything, or anyone in the area of the beach as it is commonly known, then please come forward.

"It is vital to uncover how and where he died and who is responsible for taking his remains to the Blue Lagoon."

Anyone with information should contact the Operation Pinlock incident room in confidence on 01707 355959 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111..