Police officer found dead on UK beach

The public have been asked to avoid the area

Emergency services attended the scene where the body of a man, believed to have been a detective inspector, was found.

Cordons were set up at Whiterocks beach in Portrush, Co Antrim on Sunday with the public being asked to stay away from the beach, as per Belfast Live.

Alderman Richard Brown Stewart, deputy mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, said the incident was "a shocking discovery for the town".

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the discovery of a body at the Whiterocks beach this morning," he said.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and loved ones of the deceased at what will be an incredibly difficult and distressing time for them.

"I also want to pay tribute to the emergency services and all those involved in responding to the incident with professionalism, dignity and care. I would ask people to respect the privacy of the family as investigations continue."

A PSNI spokesperson previously said: "Police are currently in attendance after a body was found on the beach in Whiterocks today, Sunday May 17. Cordons are in place and the public is asked to avoid the area at this time."