A COMMUNITY has been left in shock after a body was found in an area along the coastline north of Maryport.

Figures including the mayor of Maryport have expressed their sadness and sent their best wishes to the family of the deceased.

Police said they received a report at 12.39pm on Tuesday, September 27 that a member of the public had seen a body on land in the Beckfoot area on the west coast of Cumbria.

Cumbria Constabulary confirmed yesterday that a body had been found but they had not confirmed an identity at the time of publication.

A prominent businesswoman who owns a community pub in the area has expressed shock at the event and sent her best wishes to the person's family.

Vicky Hope, owner of The Lowther Arms, Mawbray, which is just a short walk from the area in which the police investigation has taken place, said: "We are all shocked and saddened to hear that a body has been found.

"Our hearts go out to all this person's family and close friends who have searched for so long.

"We are thinking of them all at such a sad time."

Mayor of nearby town Maryport Peter Kendall has also expressed the best wishes and condolences of the town.

He said: "My thoughts and prayers and those of my family are for the person and their loved ones at this sad time. Things like should never happen, our community is in shock at this very awful time. 

"The thoughts of the people of Maryport are with the friends and family of this individual at this devastating time."

Times & Star readers have taken to social media to send their respect and condolences to the family of the deceased.

Louise McDermott said: "Heartbreaking, condolences to the family."

Ricky Brown also sent his thoughts to the persons family, adding: "Rest in peace, thoughts are with your family mate."

Following the discovery of the body, a police investigative scene was established and enquiries are now underway to establish the circumstances around the death.

It is understood that investigation tents were established in the area from Tuesday afternoon and that these were still in place for the majority of yesterday.

A Cumbria Police spokesperson said: "Members of the public may see a police presence as a result."